18 Feb My Girlfriend Is Pregnant – What Do I Do?
When your girlfriend or partner comes to you with news of pregnancy, it’s natural to feel many different emotions. You might be scared, confused, upset, or even excited. But no matter how you feel about the situation, there are some things you need to do to ensure you and her are both healthy and safe. Keep reading to learn more and then send us a text at 201-677-2394 for more information.
First Steps
Before you do anything else, there are a few essential questions you should ask. Make sure you get the answers to these questions before you make any decisions or take any further action.
Is She Really Pregnant?
The first question you need to answer is, “Is she really pregnant?” You’d be surprised how many women think they could be pregnant and tell their partner before they’ve even taken a pregnancy test.
If you aren’t sure where to get a pregnancy test or want to make sure you can trust the results, come to Lighthouse Pregnancy Resource Center today. We offer totally free and confidential pregnancy testing services.
Is the Pregnancy Viable?
Once your girlfriend has taken a pregnancy test and gotten a positive result, the next step is to see if the pregnancy is viable. A surprising percentage of them are not, and will either self-terminate or require medical intervention (such as in the case of an ectopic pregnancy).
You can confirm pregnancy viability with an obstetric ultrasound. We offer free ultrasound examinations to any woman who gets a positive pregnancy test result at our center.
What Does She Need?
Along with making sure the pregnancy is safe, you should also make sure your partner is. As much as you’re going through, recognize that your girlfriend is experiencing all that and more. Women’s bodies go through rapid and difficult changes during pregnancy, and your girlfriend may have trouble handling them all. Try to be understanding and compassionate during this time, and realize she may need help even if she doesn’t ask for it.
What Do You Need?
Many men in this situation make the mistake of concentrating so much on their girlfriend and the pregnancy that they forget to take care of themselves. However, it’s perfectly natural to take some time to talk to a trusted friend, family member, or counselor. You shouldn’t feel like you have to suppress your own emotions to make it through this situation. Instead, find an outlet for these feelings.
Other Advice
Here’s some more quick advice and guidance that you may find useful:
Things to Do
- Listen. Remember, you’re not the only person in this situation. Listen to your girlfriend and try to understand her perspective and feelings.
- Be available. Your partner needs your support and help. Don’t distance yourself or disappear. Instead, make yourself available to her and be there to support her.
- Talk to Each Other. Make sure you’re on the same page and that you express your feelings to her. Make sure she feels comfortable doing the same with you. Discuss how you’ll tell others and what your next steps are.
- Get More Information. Don’t assume you know everything already. Get information about your options, your rights as a parent, and what your next steps should be.
What Not to Do
- Run Away. Your first instinct might be to distance yourself or deny responsibility. This will only make everything else harder. Don’t run from your responsibilities – face them and deal with them.
- Pressure Her. You both need to agree on what your next steps are. You shouldn’t pressure her to think, act, or feel a certain way about the pregnancy. Doing so will only push her away.
- Close Yourself Off. Finally, remember to be an active participant in the relationship and pregnancy. Don’t close yourself off or be passive. You have responsibilities to fulfill, and you shouldn’t put all the pressure on others to fill your role.
You Can Do It. We Can Help
At Lighthouse Pregnancy Resource Center, we provide both women and men with the resources and information they need to handle an unplanned pregnancy. Text 201-677-2394 or visit one of our clinics today to access free pregnancy testing, free limited ultrasounds, parenting education, and more. Call one of our three centers today to schedule an appointment now, or book an appointment online anytime.
Wayne, NJ (973) 238-9045
Hackensack, NJ (973) 238-9045
Paterson, NJ (973) 238-9045