We’re pregnant, now what? “He wants an abortion, she doesn’t.”

Scenario 2: The father wants an abortion but the mother doesn’t.

Now let’s talk about what it looks like when the roles are reversed.

A woman finds out that she is pregnant and quickly learns that she and her partner are not on the same page. She wants to continue the pregnancy but her partner wants to terminate. Immediately, a woman may be feeling unable to continue alone, unsupported or unloved by her partner, and powerless in this situation. She may feel hopeless-but there is still hope! With the right support and resources, like those provided by AbbaCare, women can be empowered to embrace their pregnancy with confidence.

A woman should start by informing herself and her partner with the facts, and even if there is resistance, share their thoughts with their partner! Show them the pictures, the heartbeat, and encourage them to see things from your perspective. If that feels scary, here at AbbaCare we have a men’s coaching program where men are equipped to walk alongside the father of the baby and encourage them. There is hope!

Even if the father decides to leave in this situation, a woman should still feel empowered to move forward in her pregnancy. By providing material assistance, classes, and referrals to local medical and maternity resources, AbbaCare is ready to face this challenge alongside these women.

Just know, the father of the baby has no legal right to make a woman abort her pregnancy, and if a mother is experiencing any type of abusive behavior from their partner, a way out is possible. Local shelters such as The Laurel Center provide safe housing and educational resources to women and their children fleeing an abusive home situation.

Abortion regret is real, and oftentimes mothers suffer psychologically, physically, or both. If a woman is facing an unplanned pregnancy, we are here to help.

Come Together

Ultimately, what it takes to tackle these divisive problems is to come together and talk about it. Parents should feel empowered to share their fears and thoughts. Every relationship is different from their experiences, to financial stability, family dynamics and housing issues. Sometimes pregnancy decisions are not the only issues people are facing; it can be daunting to face an unplanned pregnancy when dealing with several other stressors. At AbbaCare, we want parents to know they can receive support not only from us, but also from many other local organizations who are equipped to help families just like them. In the midst of a life-changing situation, it is important to slow down, breathe, be informed and find hope.

AbbaCare is a pregnancy resource center serving women, men, and families facing unexpected pregnancies. To learn more about our free, confidential services, visit abbacare.org.