She told you she’s pregnant, and your first thought was that you don’t want to be a father. If that’s where your mind went, you’re probably carrying a lot of questions about your future, your relationship, and what happens next. You cannot control the outcome of this pregnancy, but you are far from powerless. What you do in the next few days and weeks matters, for her, for you, and for your relationship.

Women’s Clinic welcomes women and their partners for confidential appointments at three locations in Maryland. No insurance is needed, and same-day appointments are available.

Call or text 443.333.8856 or request an appointment today.

If she’s considering abortion, ask us whether a pre-abortion consultation and viability ultrasound could be right for her. You’re welcome to come to the appointment.

Get Facts Before Either of You Makes Assumptions

An unexpected pregnancy tends to send both partners straight into decision mode, often before anyone has confirmed the basics. Skipping that step can be dangerous. 

Roughly one in four pregnancies ends in miscarriage, and a home pregnancy test cannot tell you whether a pregnancy is viable or how far along your partner is. Those details can change the entire conversation you’re about to have.

If abortion is on the table, encourage her to schedule a pre-abortion consultation and viability ultrasound first. A viability ultrasound can confirm that the pregnancy is progressing, estimate how far along she is, and determine whether it is located in the uterus. Knowing where the pregnancy is located matters because an ectopic pregnancy requires immediate medical attention. Those are important medical details that can help protect her health before making any decision about the pregnancy.

Tell Her the Truth Without Applying Pressure

Under the law, the decision about this pregnancy is hers. That can be hard to accept when the outcome will shape your life, too. But you must find the balance between staying silent and issuing ultimatums.

Say what you honestly think, once, clearly, and without threats attached. Pressuring a woman toward any outcome, whether toward abortion or away from one, tends to damage trust in ways that outlast the pregnancy itself. In many relationships, honest conversations build more trust than pressure ever will. Share how you feel, listen to her concerns, and give both of you space to think through what comes next.

Understand What Each Option Means for You Specifically

Understanding what each option could mean can help you have a more informed conversation together.

If she chooses to parent, paternity carries legal and financial responsibilities that apply whether or not you wanted the pregnancy. Knowing that upfront lets you plan rather than panic. If she’s considering adoption, both parents may have legal rights and responsibilities depending on the circumstances. Women’s Clinic can explain how the adoption process works and answer your questions. 

And if she’s leaning toward abortion, a pre-abortion consultation and viability ultrasound can provide important medical information about her pregnancy at no cost, while allowing her to learn about abortion procedures, possible side effects, and potential risks before making a decision.

Request An Appointment This Week

Right now, you don’t need to solve every question about your future. You can simply encourage the next right step: learning more about the pregnancy before either of you makes a decision.

Women’s Clinic welcomes women and their partners for confidential appointments. No insurance is needed, and same-day appointments are often available. Call or text 443.333.8856 or request an appointment at our Annapolis, Bowie, or Severna Park locations.

Women’s Clinic does not provide or refer for abortions.