I’m Afraid of How My Partner Will React to My Unplanned Pregnancy

Fear can be a natural response to an unexpected pregnancy. You worry about what others will think, especially your partner. It’s understandable if you feel like your world and future have been turned upside down.

If your relationship with your partner is already on shaky ground, you may fear that telling him will only make it worse. Perhaps he’s made it clear that he never wants to be a parent, or the two of you may be struggling financially as it is.

There is no need to tell him until you’re ready. The team at Lamb of God Maternity Home can help you formulate a plan. Get the facts about your pregnancy first and learn about all of your options. 

You should never have to face an unexpected pregnancy alone. We’re here to support you. Here are a few tips on talking with your partner and how Lamb of God can help you.

More Than Anything, You Need to Be Safe

If your fear is because your partner has a volatile or abusive nature, it’s understandable that you would be concerned. Studies have shown that abuse escalates when a woman becomes pregnant. 

Abuse can come in many forms. Your partner can not only be physically abusive, but he can also emotionally manipulate you. He may be afraid of the responsibility of being a parent, the financial strain, or the fact that a pregnancy will take your attention away.

No one, whether pregnant or not, should be abused by a partner. If you need to share your concerns confidentially, talk with us about the type of abuse you are experiencing, or contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233. If you feel threatened, call 911 immediately.

Have You Verified Your Pregnancy?

Although your period is late and the pregnancy test is positive, there still may be a chance you’re no longer pregnant. Experts estimate that 10 to 20% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage. The number may even be higher because many miscarriages occur before a woman even realizes she’s pregnant.

You can still get a positive result on a pregnancy test after a miscarriage because it takes your body time to return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels. The best way to determine if your pregnancy is developing or if you’ve miscarried is with an ultrasound. 

At Lamb of God Maternity Homes, we can recommend nearby places that provide free and confidential ultrasounds. Give us a call at 760-294-7969 for referrals.

Making Plans to Tell Your Partner

Here are a few steps you may want to consider as you plan out how to tell your partner that you’re pregnant:

• Choose a time and place where everyone is relaxed and free from distractions. 
• Consider having the conversation in a public place if you’re concerned about his response.
• Consider having a trusted friend or close relative with you when you talk.
• Be honest and straightforward.
• Give your partner time to hear and absorb the news.
• Don’t let the conversation deteriorate into an argument. Suggest you both take time to consider your next steps.
• Let your partner know that you want to have an ultrasound and review all your options.

Talk With Lamb of God Maternity Home

Remember, this is your pregnancy, too. You should have the final say on how it’s handled. Don’t allow your partner to pressure you one way or another. No one has the authority to make you do what you don’t want to do.

This is a difficult time, but we’re here to help you. If you need a safe space to talk or work out a plan confidentially, contact Lamb of God. You can fill out our online contact form or call us at 760-294-7969. If you need assistance after hours, you can call our 24/7 helpline at 760-715-6463.