Dealing with the challenges of an unexpected pregnancy can be overwhelming on its own. When a partner is pushing you towards abortion, it can feel like the pressure is mounting even more. However, it’s important to stay grounded. Remember: this is your pregnancy, and ultimately, the choice is yours to make.
We’ll explore options and steps you can take if you feel pressured by your partner to have an abortion.
1. Make Your Health & Safety a Priority
Are you experiencing pressure from your partner through threats or verbal abuse? If so, your safety is the highest priority, and it’s essential to seek support at the National Domestic Abuse Violence hotline, available 24/7.
If that’s not a factor, it’s still essential to consider the pressure you’re facing. One study found 75% of women who had an abortion felt at least subtly pressured into getting one. Of these women, many reported negative mental health outcomes afterward, including feelings of:
- Shame
- Guilt
- Regret
- Self-hatred
- Worthlessness
- Being unworthy of love
- Low self-esteem
- Anxiety
This is why it’s critical that you be the one to make your own pregnancy decision.
2. Discover Your Options
While abortion may be one of your options, you still have two other routes that you owe it to yourself to consider: parenting and adoption.
Parenting can feel overwhelming, but as your circumstances change, what seems out of reach today might become possible tomorrow. We’re here to help, offering free resources designed to support and empower you if you’re considering parenting.
Your other choice, adoption, is not about giving up your child; it’s a loving decision that can provide your child with a bright future. You have the power to select the adoptive family and decide on the level of future communication.
Take the time to explore these options to make a decision that aligns with your goals.
3. Starting a Dialogue With Your Partner
Communicating with your partner is important, but make sure it happens when you’re ready and on your own terms. Share your feelings and explain why this decision is so challenging for you.
Through open and honest conversation, you might better understand each other’s views. However, even if you don’t reach a resolution, keep in mind that the choice ultimately belongs to you, as it’s your future and well-being that are most impacted.
You Are Not Alone
You don’t have to navigate this challenging circumstance alone. You can find support with us at Heartbeats Women’s Center.
We’re here to provide free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and other resources to help you make a confident decision. Let us help you consider your options and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Contact us for a free and confidential appointment.
*All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.
