For Friends
Exploring adoption after an unplanned pregnancy can be a heartbreaking and confusing experience for many women. It can also be a stressful experience for close friends. Watching someone experience this type of situation can be difficult. It’s hard to watch someone struggle. But, you can be there to help. You can be a strong support. You can inspire growth and healing.
This section focuses on two main situations:
My Friend is Pregnant: Knowing that your friend is experiencing an unplanned pregnancy can also be stressful for you. You may feel that you want to help, but you’re unsure of how to do so exactly. But you can help. The main thing you can be for your pregnant friend is a stable and sturdy support. Help her along her journey of self-discovery and decision-making. During this difficult time, she needs your support. She needs your love.
You’ll find that your friend will be stressed, worried, frustrated, uncertain, and scared. Whether or not to place a child with an adoptive family is quite a big decision to make—especially if that decision will be made alone. Give her your input, and listen to her opinions in return. Be kind and supportive. Don’t try to force her into the decision you want her to make. Let her analyze her life, her situation, her options, and herself. Only then can she truly make an informed decision that works best for herself and her baby.
Dating a Pregnant Woman: If you’re dating a woman who is experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, it can put a strain on your relationship. This is because of the amount of stress the two of you will experience. Placing a child for adoption is never an easy decision to make. And with that decision, many emotions will accompany you and your girlfriend—fear, confusion, nervousness, and anger, to name a few. Remember that these emotions and feelings are normal and natural. And keep in mind that some of these emotions will take some time to deal with and to sort through. Consider this experience a learning and growing process for both of you. You’ll discover more about yourselves and each other throughout this decision-making process.
While being a good friend and stable support for someone who is exploring adoption after an unplanned pregnancy isn’t always easy, it is always worth it—for both you and your friend or girlfriend. Situations like this can strengthen your relationship and bring you closer together—ready to tackle any difficult situation with hope and confidence as you move towards a bright and happy future.
