Discovering that your girlfriend is unexpectedly pregnant can be a major shock! It's natural to feel uncertain about what steps to take next. At our Pregnancy Resources of Abilene (PRA), we're here to offer guidance, support, and practical advice to help you navigate this situation with confidence and care. Here's a step-by-step guide on what to do if you accidentally get your girlfriend pregnant.
1. Take time to Process Your Emotions
When you first find out it is important to give yourself time alone to process your emotions and notice what you are feeling. It is normal and common to feel angry, scared, overwhelmed, confused, panicked, and so many other emotions. It is important to know: 1. you won't feel these emotions forever, and 2. it is vital to take time to process the news before making any decisions or having any discussions.
2. Have an Open and Honest Conversation
Once you’ve had a chance to gather your thoughts, it’s time to talk to your girlfriend. Approach the conversation with sensitivity and empathy. Ask her how she’s feeling, share your own emotions, and listen carefully to her concerns and thoughts. Don't allow others to pressure you into thinking your opinion doesn't matter. This is a critical moment for both of you, and it’s important to communicate openly without rushing to conclusions.
3. Visit a Pregnancy Center Together
One of the most practical steps you can take is to visit a pregnancy center together. Here, you can both receive accurate information about the pregnancy and explore your options in a supportive environment. At our center, we offer confidential consultations where you can discuss your situation with trained professionals who can provide you with the resources and guidance you need.
4. Explore Your Options
At the pregnancy center, you'll have the opportunity to learn about all of your options. These may include:
Parenting: If you both decide to continue the pregnancy and raise the child, you can receive support in planning for the future, including accessing prenatal care, parenting classes, and material assistance.
Adoption: If you choose adoption, it is a brave and loving choice to give your child a future with another family. Our center can help connect you with adoption agencies and provide information about the different types of adoption that are available.
Abortion: If you choose abortion, we can provide nonjudgmental information about the procedures, what to expect, and emotional support. Because we have seen so many women & men struggle on the other side of abortion we choose to not refer or provide for them at our center.
5. Make a Decision Together
After gathering information and discussing your options, it’s time to make a decision together. This is a deeply personal choice, and it’s important to ensure that both of you are on the same page. Remember that this decision will impact both of your lives, so take the time you need to make a thoughtful, informed choice.
6. Plan for the Future
Once a decision has been made, the next step is to start planning for the future. If you decide to parent, begin preparing for the arrival of the baby. If adoption is the chosen path, start working with an agency to ensure the process goes smoothly. If abortion is the decision, ensure the clinic and doctor are licensed and in good standing, have follow-up care, and know what to expect.
7. Utilize Resources Available to You
Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone. Pregnancy Resources of Abilene offers a range of services to support you both, from prenatal care referrals to parenting classes, adoption support, and post-abortion counseling. Take advantage of these resources to ensure that you’re both supported every step of the way.
8. Take Care of Yourself
While supporting your girlfriend is crucial, it’s also important to take care of yourself. This is a stressful situation, and self-care is essential. Make sure you’re looking after your physical and mental health, and don’t hesitate to seek support if you need it.
An unplanned pregnancy is a significant challenge, but with the right support and information, you can navigate it together. PRA is here to provide the guidance and resources you need, helping you make the best decision for both of your futures. Whatever path you choose, remember that you’re not alone—we’re here to help you every step of the way.