When your partner comes to you with news of pregnancy, it’s natural to feel many different emotions. You might be scared, confused, upset, or even excited. But no matter how you feel about the situation, there are some things you need to do to ensure both you and her are healthy and safe. Keep reading for our advice on some of the next steps you should take, and then call Pregnancy Care Center of Grants Pass at (541) 479-6264 to learn how we can support each of you, both individually and together, during this time.

First Steps

Before you do anything else, there are a few essential questions you should ask. Make sure you get the answers to these questions before you make any decisions or take any further action.

Is She Really Pregnant?

The first question you need to answer is, “Is she really pregnant?” You’d be surprised how many women think they could be pregnant and tell their partner before they’ve even taken a pregnancy test or have taken an inexpensive pregnancy test but are unaware that they received a false positive test result.

If you aren’t sure where to get a pregnancy test or want to make sure you can trust the results, come to Pregnancy Care Center of Grants Pass today. We offer totally free, confidential, lab-grade pregnancy testing with 99% accuracy.

Is the Pregnancy Viable?

Once your girlfriend has taken a pregnancy test and gotten a positive result, the next step is to see if the pregnancy is viable. A surprising percentage of them are not, and will either self-terminate or may require medical intervention (such as in the case of an ectopic pregnancy).

You can confirm pregnancy viability with an obstetric ultrasound. We offer free limited OB ultrasound examinations performed by registered nurses that confirm a viable pregnancy, determine your estimated due date, and more. If your pregnancy test is positive, our medical staff may schedule a free ultrasound for you.

What Does She Need?

Along with making sure the pregnancy is safe, you should also make sure your partner is. As much as you’re going through, recognize that your girlfriend is experiencing all that and more. Women’s bodies go through rapid and difficult changes during pregnancy, and your girlfriend may have trouble handling them all. Try to be understanding and compassionate during this time, and realize she may need help even if she doesn’t ask for it. If you’re not sure what that looks like or how you can support her, we offer free resources and consultations where you can get your questions answered. We also offer Pathways, which is a free pregnancy and early parenting support and education resource.

What Do You Need?

Many men in this situation make the mistake of concentrating so much on their girlfriend and the pregnancy that they forget to take care of themselves. However, it’s perfectly natural to take some time to talk to a trusted friend, family member, or counselor. You shouldn’t feel like you have to suppress your own emotions to make it through this situation. Instead, find a healthy outlet for your feelings. If you ever need to talk or process what you’re feeling, stop by Pregnancy Care Center of Grants Pass at any time to talk with a member of our compassionate and trained staff.

Face the Situation Together

One thing that’s very important is to try to remain unified through this as you’re on the same team, and your decisions affect both of you. When one of you gets frustrated, angry, or scared - and the chances are that will happen - just remember that you’re stronger together.

At Pregnancy Care Center of Grants Pass, we provide both men and women with the resources and information they need to handle an unplanned pregnancy. Contact us today to access free pregnancy testing, free limited OB ultrasounds, parenting education and resources, and more. Call our center today at (541) 479-6264 or visit us online to schedule an appointment today.