Pregnancy is a deeply personal experience for not only the mother but also the father of the child, wondering, “How is my girlfriend pregnant?”
While each situation is unique, unexpected pregnancy is not uncommon. According to a Guttmacher Institute study, nearly half of all pregnancies in the United States were unintended in 2011. There are several options available to expecting parents who aren’t prepared to keep the baby in the grand scheme of things.
So, if you’re one of the many concerned partners asking, “My girlfriend is pregnant. What do I do?” Rest assured because we are going over a few tips to guide you through an unexpected pregnancy.
5 Tips for Partners With Pregnant Girlfriends
Be Attentive
For couples that don’t want to keep the baby, this can be an especially difficult process. Be attentive to one another and communicate your expectations. In the end, it is important to understand each other’s point of view to have a constructive conversation about the options available to you.
Consider All Options
Today, there are a wealth of options available to expectant couples. Common pregnancy options include parenting, adoption and termination. Consult with a professional that can assess your situation and explain every option that applies to your situation. At the end of the day, the more knowledge you have, the more informed your final decision will be. Also, be prepared if the expectant mother chooses the decision that makes the most sense to her.
Tell The Family
While this step is not necessary, a couple may decide to tell the family about an unexpected pregnancy. Couples may tell their families for many reasons, including religious obligations, cultural expectations or to receive emotional support. Whichever the reason, this should be discussed beforehand.
Acknowledge the Present Relationship
As with any relationship, a difficult and emotional event like this can change the dynamics of the relationship. In this case, finding out your girlfriend is pregnant is a defining moment in a relationship. Check-in with your partner frequently and communicate feelings as they come. Ultimately, when thinking, “How did my girlfriend get pregnant?” may leave a relationship frayed. However, with proper communication, it can remain intact.
Discuss a Prevention Plan for Later
Above all, discuss a prevention plan after the fact. Dealing with an unwanted pregnancy is a jarring experience for both parents. To prevent similar occurrences down the line, a proper prevention plan should be discussed. Options include condoms, birth control, abstinence and more. At the end of the day, a pregnancy prevention plan should be established to prevent your girlfriend from becoming pregnant until you are ready for a child.
Consult with the Professional
Don’t deal with this on your own! Consult a professional who can provide you with the information you and your partner need to make an informed decision.
The adoption specialists at Texas Adoption Center have the knowledge and resources to help you decide if adoption is the appropriate decision for you and your partner. Their experience has prepared them to handle various situations, even one where an anxious partner with inquiries like, “My girlfriend is pregnant. What do I do now?”
In a confidential meeting, a specialist will explain the adoption process. They will also assess your unique situation and circumstances to determine if adoption is a viable solution for you. To talk with an adoption specialist, contact Texas Adoption at 844-893-7943.
