How do I tell my partner that I’m pregnant?
You missed your period. You took the test. You saw a positive result. Now what?
You may be feeling like the next step – telling your partner – is the hardest part, but you’ve got this. We’ve got some practical tips for navigating this conversation:
Tip 1: Confirm the Pregnancy
If you’ve already taken an at-home test, this may seem unnecessary, but at-home tests are not always accurate. PLL offers no-cost, lab-quality testing that can help you make sure you’re actually pregnant. We may also be able to provide you with a free ultrasound to confirm the viability of your pregnancy.
Bonus: you’ll have a chance to talk this through with our confidential, supportive staff if you feel like that might be helpful.
Tip 2: Practice What You’re Going to Say
It might sound silly, but practice having this conversation with someone you trust. Just going over the words and possible outcomes of this conversation can make you more comfortable going into this important conversation. And the close friend or relative you choose to practice with may be able to give you some pointers about the words to use and help to put you at ease.
Tip 3: Talk Face-to-Face
It might be tempting to skip the awkwardness and tackle tough conversations via text, but nothing can replace the tone of voice, body language, and facial expressions we experience when talking to someone face-to-face. This conversation is too important to risk things getting “lost in translation” via text.
Tip 4: Be Open and Honest
An unexpected pregnancy may bring about a variety of emotions – for both of you – and that’s ok! Be open and honest with each other about how you’re feeling – scared, excited, happy, sad…a combination of those things. It’s ok to feel all of those feelings. Remember that placing blame on one another won’t help anything. If one of you needs space to process things before continuing a productive conversation, that’s ok, too.
Tip 5: Make Decisions Together
Chances are, many people will have an opinion about what is “best” for you, but you and your partner are the only ones whose opinions matter. However, if your partner is pressuring you to make decisions you don’t agree with, find some outside support from a trusted friend or advocate (like the ones we have at PLL). Though you may regret getting pregnant, the choices you make about your pregnancy will have lasting effects – you don’t want to regret those, too.
Tip 6: Get Connected at PLL
Don’t underestimate the power of a great support system. All of the staff at PLL have your best interest at heart. Whether you’re on this journey with a supportive partner, friends, or family members, or you feel like you’re on your own, we would be honored to walk alongside you.
All of this starts with a free consultation. Our goal when you walk in the door is for you to feel loved and supported, knowing that we have your best interest at heart. We’ll help you with pregnancy confirmation and provide information about all of your options. We can even have that practice conversation if you want. Schedule your appointment (or give us a call) today.
Tip 7: Attend Appointments Together
Oftentimes, pregnancy feels “real” to a woman sooner than it does to a man. After all, it’s your body that is physically changing. If you’re comfortable with it, invite your partner to attend your PLL appointments with you. You’ll both find support and helpful resources here.
Disclaimer: This website and blog do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided here is only for general understanding. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Please be aware that PLL does not provide or refer for abortion services.