Supporting a friend during an unexpected pregnancy can be much harder than you realize at first because there’s no easy answer.
Unlike a bad day or a breakup, pregnancy is a serious situation that will have a life-long impact on her, whether she chooses to parent, to make an adoption plan, or to abort. It’s hard, but we’ll cover essential tips to help you support her best.
A good first step is to tell your friend about Metro Women’s Center in Crystal, MN. Located at 6418 Bass Lake Road, Suite 2, we are fully trained to help walk her through her options, local resources, and referrals. We welcome friends and partners to attend pregnancy appointments if the client agrees, and all of our services are free. Contact us to schedule.
Tip 1. Listen to Her
Pregnancy news was likely a shock. She could be replaying all the events that led up to the pregnancy and wondering how to talk with her partner and family before she even thinks about what to do next. There are many layers to this situation, and it will take time to process them all.
Your job as her friend is to listen and be a sounding board as she wrestles with her circumstances. Your input and encouragement to slow down, to consider her personal values, and to not let fear drive her choices will be of great help to your friend.
Tip 2. Make Life Easier
When her mind is racing, likely chores, cooking, and necessary errands are on the back burner. Offer to help her with these areas of her life.
In addition to asking her how you can best help her, you can also be extra mindful and thoughtful as you work through your own to-do list. For instance, you can text her and ask if she needs anything when you’re running to the grocery store.
Tip 3. Check on Her Often
She’s going through a lot emotionally, and she needs a friend like you. Make sure to check in on her often. Start an ongoing chat that you make sure to message once a day or every couple of days, depending on your relationship.
By letting her know you’re thinking of her, it will help her feel less alone.
Tip 4. Weigh in When it’s Time
It’s a common misconception that all women want to make their pregnancy decision without any thoughts or input from others. While pressure isn’t welcome, a “I support whatever you decide” often adds to the isolation of her situation.
Talk through every option with her. As her friend who cares about her, it’s okay to share your thoughts and feelings compassionately, while recognizing she has the final word.
If you know her well, you can speak into her situation in ways others cannot. You might be in a position to remind her of previous conversations you have had with her about having children or her thoughts about abortion before the pregnancy.
We’re Here to Help in Crystal, MN
Getting assistance from an experienced team at Metro Women’s Center will ensure your friend fully understands all options and knows about the local programs available to help her.
Schedule an appointment at Metro Women’s Center to talk through everything in a safe space. We can also offer your friend a referral for an educational ultrasound to protect her reproductive health. She deserves the best care, and we’re here to provide it.