Unplanned Pregnancy Tips for Men
Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider.
An unexpected pregnancy and past abortion journey are complex experiences. Truthfully, they affect both men and women deeply. Whether or not you’re in a relationship with your partner, you still need time and space to process on your own. You may be feeling pressure from your partner or those around you. Let's pause and look at the whole situation, piece by piece, to understand it better.
Acknowledge the Big “IF”
If you’re wondering, “What if she’s pregnant?,” know that you’re not alone. It's a valid question and a possibility, but it's best not to jump to conclusions. Check in with your partner to see how she’s feeling.
Maybe you didn’t take the usual precautions when you were last intimate, and now you’re second guessing. Or maybe she’s been acting a bit unlike herself lately. Either way, it’s important to research the key signs of pregnancy, and then have an honest conversation together.
If you’re looking for access to a free pregnancy test, we have you covered.
Make an appointment today.
Establish Clear Communication
Clear communication is vital to reducing stress and setting expectations in any relationship—platonic, romantic, sexual, or otherwise. Try to be as honest as possible with your partner about your emotions, values, and desires.
Make sure you’ve both had time to process on your own before taking any
next steps. Consider writing down or even making a note on your phone to sort out your thoughts and plan what you’d like to communicate with your partner. This can help both of you feel more confident as you approach what could be a difficult conversation.
Know Your Values
Get clear on your values. Whether or not we’re aware of it, our core beliefs inform the way we see the world and the decisions we make. It’s important to reflect and consider what values are driving you through your current situation.
Ask yourself, “What are my core values? How do they align with my actions? How can I better integrate your values into your decision making, long-term goals, and daily practices?”
Reflecting on the bigger picture and larger context is always important. Not sure how to start?
Talk with an advocate on your own or together as a couple. We have science-backed tools to help you on your journey.
Consider the Future of Your Relationship
Deciding on the future of your relationship might be a crucial concern right now. Maybe you’re not exclusive or committed to this person, or maybe you’ve been in a relationship, but you’re not confident about a future together.
If you’ve faced a lot of issues lately, consider whether those issues are long-term or short-term. Are they based on temporary circumstances or persistent character traits? Do you see a way forward if those issues could be resolved? Are you safe?
Remember to take her feelings into account too; she might be feeling more overwhelmed than you are. How can you
offer her the best support, no matter what your relationship status is?
Explore the Financial Commitment
You may be thinking a lot about the financial burden associated with your situation, but thankfully, you're not in this by yourself. From medical costs and essential supplies to emotional support, our network offers a variety of free resources to assist both you and your partner.
As you explore your options, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Or if you’re simply looking for resources, we're ready to connect you with one of our partnering organizations.
Process a Past Abortion Experience
If your partner has had an abortion, and you’re looking for a place to process. Abortion experiences are complex, and can cause a wide range of emotions for both partners. It’s perfectly normal to experience a variety of shifting emotions around it, both good and bad, even many years later. Whatever you’re feeling, we’re here to listen.
Make an appointment with one of our trained personal advocates for a confidential space to process your emotions, or consider joining one of our
support groups to hear from others who’ve walked through it.
Continue to Process
Looking for more resources? Choose what’s best for you based on on your situation:
- My partner is pregnant, or may be pregnant, and I'm not sure what to do.
- My partner is pregnant, and I want to know more about parenting or adoption.
- My partner had an abortion, and I want to process.
- I want to know how to build a healthy relationship.
Each of these aspects can be difficult and even overwhelming to process. Talking with someone you trust is a great way to evaluate how you're feeling and what you value. If you'd like, you can also talk with one of our trained male advocates, who are here to listen to you without judgment or pressure.
Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider.
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ABOUT AVAIL
Avail NYC provides free, compassionate support for women and men navigating unexpected pregnancies or seeking support after an abortion. Our trained Personal Advocates offer a safe, confidential space online or in-person to process emotions and explore options. Equipping clients with personalized coping strategies and resources, we empower them to move forward with confidence at their own pace. Avail NYC is not a medical provider. To learn more or meet with a personal advocate, visit Avail NYC.