For Men

An unplanned pregnancy may feel stressful. For you and your partner, remember that emotions can be heightened during stressful times. She might be experiencing pregnancy hormones that make ordinary things in her daily life more difficult. She may have nausea, fatigue, and mood swings, among other symptoms.

Following are tips that can help you, and help you help her.

• Practice Listening – Offer her a safe space to share her feelings without fear of how you will respond.
• Be Informed. – Seek out resources for what is involved in any decision you and your partner are contemplating. For example, learn about the short and long-term risks of surgical abortion or the abortion pill. Learn about the process of adoption. Find out the benefits and resources available to young parents.
• Attend Appointments with Her. – Your partner may find that you are a reassuring presence during ultrasounds and doctor’s appointments. She will likely feel supported and valued. You’ll also be more informed with medically accurate information about her pregnancy.
• Give Your Input. – Your partner may appreciate your input more than you realize. Offer your support and describe how you can help her with parenting, for example. Your informed perspective is a vital part of the process.
• Be Helpful in Small Things Too. – Pregnancy can be an overwhelming time. Help your partner take her mind off things by helping with groceries, running errands, or other daily tasks.
• Take Care of Yourself. – This can be a stressful time for you, too. Ensure you care for yourself and process the news of your partner’s pregnancy. Your mental and physical well-being is important as well.

Where Can I Find Support?

It is often easy for men to feel lost during an unintended pregnancy. But the good news is that help is available to you, too. Waterleaf Women’s Center is here to support you. We offer the following services for men:

• STD testing and treatment for gonorrhea and chlamydia
• Parenting and life skills classes
• Resources – we can connect you with a multitude of local resources to help you with things like parenting costs, bills, supplies, education, and more.
• After-abortion support
• Spiritual formation