FOR MEN
My Partner is Pregnant… Now What?
Some questions you may be asking:
What do we do now?
How can I best support her?
What does it mean to be a father?
How can we afford a child?
Even if you feel unsure or unprepared, here are some helpful tips to move forward:
Listen to each other – commit together to find help and answers for both of you
Have your pregnancy confirmed – come in with your partner for a free and confidential pregnancy test and to discuss next steps
Make a plan – Agape exists to be a safe place for both of you to discuss all your options and make a plan that you can feel confident in moving forward
Mentorship and Support for Men – We are here for you too.
Your role is vital and you are not alone. Agape offers a space for you to be seen and heard.
Call us at (423) 928 – 2273 or schedule an appointment here.
You matter to us and we want to walk with you.
DO
- Listen. She may have conflicting emotions about this pregnancy and what the next stage of life is going to look like. Be available to her to hear her fears and concerns.
- Talk about it. While she is the mother, you are the father. You should be willing to speak about your own fears and concerns. Additionally, tell your support system about the pregnancy. You may feel relived to have more support than you anticipated.
- Be honest. Don’t tell her just what she wants to hear, but kindly express your viewpoint so that you two can make a plan and be on the same page moving forward, be it parenting, adoption or abortion.
- Offer to attend appointments. This is a great chance for you to bond with your partner and your baby, and she may want your support during medical appointments. Also consider attending pregnancy classes with her so you can learn about your baby’s development and how to adjust to life with a newborn.
DON’T
- Pressure her. She may be facing a lot of pressure regarding this pregnancy already, maybe from friends or parents. Don’t add to her pressure. Be a supportive outlet for her.
- Bail. Be a present partner. You need to work with her to make a plan for this pregnancy, and for your child’s life. And if you choose to not be father figure, you may still be a financial support.
- Forget your influence. Take a moment to breathe and collect your thoughts before you say something you can’t take back. You matter to her, your opinion matters to her, and you should use your influence gently.