It can be challenging navigating an unplanned pregnancy, especially if your partner is pressuring you to make a decision that makes you uncomfortable.
Maybe you wonder if you’re obligated to listen to your partner’s request for an abortion.
The good news is, legally, the decision is ultimately yours. However, it can still be challenging to discuss the details of your pregnancy with your partner.
Continue reading to learn more about recognizing pressure from your partner and some tips on navigating future discussions about your pregnancy.
Recognizing Pressure From Your Partner
Pressure can be direct or indirect, but it is never appropriate for your partner to pressure you into making a decision you do not want to make.
Forms of direct pressure may include threats or ultimatums, while indirect pressure may include manipulation, the silent treatment, or avoiding responsibility for the future child.
Pressure from your partner may begin to make you question your judgment. For this reason, you must be able to recognize and address your partner’s behaviors.
Sharing Your Pregnancy Decision
1. Prioritize Your Safety
If your partner has threatened you or has been abusive in any way, seek help from the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE to create a plan for your safety before meeting with your partner. If you feel unsafe when sharing your pregnancy decision with your partner, leave immediately and call 911.
2. Acknowledge Your Feelings
Before talking with your partner, it may be helpful to journal your thoughts and feelings about your pregnancy and your pregnancy decision so that your partner may not as easily manipulate you.
3. Set Boundaries
Make it clear to your partner that this is your pregnancy decision. While you may be open to hearing his insight, you ultimately have the final say.
4. Seek Support
Asking a close friend or family member to accompany you when you talk with your partner may be beneficial if you suspect the conversation will get heated. They can act as a mediator and help ensure the conversation is productive.
5. Learn About Your Pregnancy
Before meeting with your partner, learning more about your pregnancy with an ultrasound scan can provide detailed information about your options and help you more confidently talk with your partner.
6. Give Your Partner Time
The conversation may not end as you hoped, but allow your partner time to process. You may need to have follow-up conversations after your partner has had time to think more about your pregnancy and your decision.
Get Help Today
Without your partner’s support, it may feel like you’re facing this journey alone, but you don’t have to navigate these decisions by yourself.
Lilli Women’s Center is here to help.
We provide free lab-quality pregnancy tests and ultrasound scans. After learning more about your pregnancy, our trusted staff can answer your questions and help you better understand your options.
Contact us today for your confidential appointment.
