Five Steps to Help Her...

Of course, sex can cause pregnancy―your biology textbook tells you that. But have you ever thought about how you can support a friend/girlfriend/family member when they’re faced with an unplanned pregnancy? Here are five steps you can take:

1. Be there for her. When she finds out she’s pregnant, she’s going to feel like life is changing too fast. This will cause a lot of anxiety. Let her know that you’re there to listen and that she’s not alone.

2. Be Positive. The last thing she needs is for you to respond with alarm when she’s already scared― be calm and reassuring.

3. Help Her. Ask what she needs. Is it help finding a doctor, picking up her latest pregnancy cravings or getting supplies? Don’t be overbearing though―she’s already stressed.

4. Provide Rest and Relaxation. This might be the most stressful period of her life. Support and encourage her. Tell her she still deserves a little pampering. Treat her to a meal, have a movie night at home, or indulge her with a spa day.

5. Create a Support Network. Have friends and family join in to help her on her journey to motherhood. Throw a baby shower, set up meal trains to help feed her, raise gas money or offer to drive her to appointments, start a GoFundMe page or fundraise to help pay for baby supplies.

Start to think about this today. Make a plan, at least in your head. Your friend will need you.