If You’re the Father

Though legally, you may not have the final say in your partner’s choice with pregnancy, your support for her is still needed. And it may go a long way within determining the outcome of her pregnancy, whether to keep or abort the baby. You should know that whatever outcome is reached eventually affects your life. If you are the father, you should show her love and affection during her pregnancy. When she needs someone to talk to, be there to listen. When she needs time to herself, give her all the time she needs. Be patient and ensure you support her every way you can. Show her that you genuinely care and will be there for her every step of the way. Also, be understanding about her situation and the difficulties she may be facing due to her new situation. As the partner responsible for the pregnancy, let her know your opinions and thoughts on the matter. And if you and your partner disagree on a decision regarding the pregnancy, then you should take things slowly. Collectively consult with trusted friends or counsellors in making the right decision instead of rushing into one. It would help if you took your time to reach an agreement on the matter and ensure that you carry each other along every step of the way.

To help you with making a better decision as a father, we have outlined a few questions that should shape your decision:

Do you enjoy your time with your children and want to have children of your own?
Do you feel concerned when you see other parents having a good time with their kids?
Have you ever given it a thought to be a dad someday?
Do you want to share a kid with your partner?
Do you feel your family is complete without kids?
Do you have conflicting philosophical or religious beliefs against the practice of abortion?
At what stage of foetal development do you think life begins and a foetus is regarded as a person?
Did you have unsettled parent issues that are informing your opinion about the pregnancy?
Do you want to model your child after the manner your parents modelled you?

Is there any support from friends and family to help with the parental responsibility you will share with your partner?
Do you think you are ready to share your life with a kid, your time at work, with friends, and even with your partner?
If you keep, abort, or adopt a child, what regrets do you think you might have in the future?
Temporary change in the cervix
Slight foetal movements

Finally, it would help if you took your time to think about your future and plan how you want your partner or family to fit in it. Think about how you want to live your life as a partner and as a parent. Our pregnancy support team and counsellors are prepared to listen to your questions and support you in making the right decision with your partner.