Preventing Divorce After Unplanned Pregnancy

Many people are excited to welcome a new baby into their family. Others, not so much. Children are a huge responsibility and often don’t fit into the lives of people who are attending school or working several jobs to survive. In 2008, most pregnancies in the United States (51%) were unplanned. In 2011, that number dropped to 45%.

An unintended pregnancy can hurt a relationship. Even the most stable of marriages can suffer a rift or even experience divorce when a couple learns a child is on the way. It can be especially frustrating when there are issues with finances.

So what decision will you make? Will you and your spouse stay together? Here are some tips to prevent divorce when an unexpected pregnancy messes up your plans.

Stay Calm 

Your first instinct may be to panic, but it’s best to remain calm. Yes, you are likely overwhelmed. Even couples who plan children often feel unprepared. However, you need to keep your emotions in check and have this difficult conversation with your spouse. It’s easier when you’re calm.

Be Honest About Your Concerns

Pregnancy is no minor thing. It results in a child, a responsibility you will have for at least 18 years. You likely have concerns about the pregnancy, so be sure to express them to your spouse. Are you worried about your health or finances? Did you just start a new job and are afraid to lose it? Are you worried about how your spouse feels? Put everything out in the open and discuss.

Listen to Your Partner

Both parties need to feel free to communicate. If you’re the one who’s pregnant, keep in mind that your partner is involved, too, so make sure his feelings are heard. He needs to be able to voice his opinion and fears. Don’t judge him or dismiss his feelings. Let his concerns be heard so you can make the right decision together.

Make a Decision Together

After you discuss the pros and cons, you and your spouse need to come to an agreement. What are the pros and cons of having a child? Is raising a child something you can do? Do you want children eventually? If you decide that you both aren’t ready for a child, then there are options. Adoption is one of them. You can give your child a loving home. You may want to make an appointment with your doctor to understand your options. If you and your spouse can’t agree on what to do with the baby, then it may be necessary to seek counseling or a divorce.

Seek Legal Help

Children can complicate a relationship. It’s possible that your marriage will face some strain if you have an unplanned pregnancy, especially if one or both parties never wanted children.

If you or your spouse has become pregnant unintentionally, take the proper steps now to prevent divorce. If you can’t come to a decision and salvage your marriage, get legal help from Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney Edward J. Jennings, P.A.  We can help you move on. Contact our office today by calling 954-764-4330 or filling out the online form.

Resource:

cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/contraception/unintendedpregnancy/index.htm

https://www.ejj-law.com/reinventing-yourself-after-divorce/