How to Have Supportive Conversations About Pregnancy Choices

If you have a loved one who is unexpectedly pregnant and is considering whether abortion, adoption, or parenting is best for her, it is understandable that you want to share your opinion. 

These conversations can be emotionally charged, so here are a few recommendations on how to remain gracious yet helpful. 

Additionally, you can also refer your friend to Positive Options for more information on all her options and to confirm her pregnancy in a confidential setting.

Avoid “I” Statements

Remain focused on what is best for her and her future. While you may feel strongly towards one path, it’s best to take a compassionate approach. She has to make her own decision.

For example, instead of saying, “I feel you should choose adoption,” ask her open-ended questions about her goals and ideal outcomes, and help her explore each choice with those goals in mind. Be an active listener!

Show Your Support

Being supportive doesn’t always mean just providing a listening ear, although that’s important. Show your support in practical ways. 

Whether it’s offering your time to drive her to a doctor’s visit or providing material assistance if she chooses to be a parent, being supportive should extend beyond just conversations.

Recommend an Options Consultation

At Positive Options, we can answer many of the questions your loved one will have, whether it’s about options or her pregnancy itself. 

We provide no-cost services, including pregnancy testing and ultrasounds, to confirm her pregnancy and reveal key health details that can impact her decisions.

An ultrasound will measure

• Gestational age: This is how far along she is, and it’s an important fact because a medical abortion is only FDA-approved through ten weeks of pregnancy.

• Pregnancy location: This will rule out ectopic pregnancy, which requires immediate medical attention.

• Pregnancy viability: Since about one in four pregnancies end naturally in miscarriage, this helps determine if the pregnancy is still progressing.

Encourage her to contact us today to schedule a free, confidential consultation and make an informed, empowered decision.