Has your girlfriend had a positive pregnancy test?
You probably have a million questions right now and that’s perfectly normal. At the Bridge Wellness South, we know that fathers have questions about pregnancy, fatherhood, providing for families (and more!), and what to do if the pregnancy was unexpected.
We can help you and your partner navigate this challenging time in your relationship.
Even though pregnancy concerns seem like they are all about the mom, it is important for fathers to be a part of the experience. You are an important part of making plans and preparing for pregnancy and pregnancy-related decisions.
You may have questions about:
- Pregnancy Options
- The development of the baby (fetal development)
- Changes in your partner’s body
- How you can be a supportive partner
- Parental Rights
- Fatherhood
- Parenting and Coparenting
Pregnancy Options
Once a woman is pregnant there are several important decisions that she and her partner will need to make. A full-term baby will need caregivers. Are you planning to parent or is adoption the right choice for you? If you are concerned with carrying a pregnancy to term and how that will impact the lives of you and your partner, you will need to receive wise counsel. Some women and their partners that choose to terminate their pregnancy find that they experience emotional regret and relationship problems as a result. It is important that you understand all of your options and how those will impact you physically, emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually. Our staff is trained to help you work through this decision in a non-judgmental environment.
Fetal Development in the first 6 weeks*
Because of science and technology we now know more than ever about the complex development during the early stages of pregnancy. Recent research has even shown that a microscopic flash of light occurs when the ovum is fertilized by the sperm. Learn more about the first 6 weeks of pregnancy HERE.
How do I help my pregnant partner?
A woman’s body goes through many changes in the nine months of pregnancy. In the initial weeks following conception, your partner may not experience any pregnancy symptoms. A missed period is often the first symptom of pregnancy. Once implantation has occurred many women report other symptoms such as breast tenderness, tiredness, nausea, and increased urination. Though there are many other possible symptoms, these common symptoms can impact your partner’s daily routine and she may need your help and support during this time. Your presence, support, and help can provide great comfort to your partner as she adjusts to her changing body and hormones. Certainly, the physical part of the process impacts the mom, but as the father, you can be a part of a crucial support system for her.
Ideas to help support your pregnancy girlfriend may include:
- Scheduling time off work to attend pregnancy and prenatal appointments
- Taking time to learn about pregnancy and fetal development
- Acknowledge and discuss issues that your partner is facing
- Find a support group or friend group that you can receive encouragement for fathers
- Help prepare and plan for the coming birth
- Work with your partner to learn about labor and delivery
- Spend time with your partner listening to and sharing about your emotions, worries, joys, etc.
Not sure where to start? We can help.
- Schedule a no-cost pregnancy testing appointment
- Contact us to learn more about fatherhood classes offered at the Bridge Wellness South
- Call and speak with a nurse with questions you may have about pregnancy 770-957-8288
Disclaimer: The information, including but not limited to text, graphics, images, and other material contained herein are for informational purposes only.
Nothing contained in this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
*fetal development information are property of Charlotte Lozier Institute