Pregnancy can be an emotional time filled with many decisions and questions. You may wonder about who to tell, who will support you, and what you will do next.
Support systems can make an enormous difference in your life and pregnancy, especially when considering pregnancy options like abortion. Keep reading to learn more about communicating with your support system and receiving help during this time.
Additionally, know that Pathways Clinic is here to be a resource for you by providing early pregnancy services, information, and a confidential space to talk and ask questions. You are not alone!
Telling Your Support System About Your Pregnancy
Maybe the idea of sharing your pregnancy with your parents, partner, or friends feels impossible. Or, maybe you’ve already told your loved ones the news.
Whether you have already told them or not, telling them can lift a weight off your shoulders and be the first step to receiving their support.
Prepare for Their Opinions and Emotions
After you’ve told your loved ones, be prepared for reactions you may not have expected, questions, and thoughts on what to do next.
Because of your relationship with your support system, they may have strong opinions. Often they want the best for you and believe they have the answer. Other times, they may let fear or worry affect them, leading to knee-jerk reactions or words they did not mean to say.
This is difficult, and if you’re feeling pulled in many different directions, we understand how hard this can be—especially as you experience pregnancy symptoms and emotions.
We’re here to encourage you to stay strong and remember that the choice you make must be 100% your decision. It will impact you more than anyone, and your support system should understand.
How Your Support System Can Help You
Once your loved ones have processed the news, their thoughts, opinions, and feelings could have shifted or changed. This is a great time to level with them and explain your needs.
Maybe you need your support system to research options or come with you to appointments. Perhaps you just want to talk about the future and how they could potentially help you with a pregnancy decision.
Outline your needs and expectations. This situation could be new to you, your partner, friends, and family. Clear communication allows them to understand how to support you best.
What if You Don’t Have a Support System?
Not everyone has a strong support system in their lives, and that’s okay. There’s always an opportunity to build one.
Contact Pathways Clinic to schedule a no-cost appointment to speak in a safe setting. We can provide the support you need right now as you consider every option: abortion, parenting, and adoption.
The choice is yours. While a support system can be helpful, also know that you are the one who must decide your next steps for yourself and your future.