ChampionsHow to Support a Friend or Sister Facing an Unplanned Pregnancy
Finding out that someone close to you—a friend, a sister, someone you care about deeply—is facing an unplanned pregnancy can be overwhelming. You may not know what to say, what to do, or how to best be there for them. Your love, support, and presence can make more of a difference than you might realize.
At Care Net Pregnancy Center of Houston, we walk alongside women every day who are navigating difficult and emotional decisions. We’ve also seen the impact of a caring friend or family member—someone like you—who listens, supports, and simply shows up without judgment.
If you’re wondering how to support your loved one during this time, here are a few ways to walk with her in love and compassion.
1. Just Be Present
One of the most powerful things you can do is show up. Not with advice or solutions at first—but with your presence. Let her know she doesn’t have to face this alone. Say things like:
- “I’m here for you.”
- “You don’t have to go through this by yourself.”
- “Whatever you’re feeling, it’s okay.”
She may be scared, uncertain, or even numb. Sometimes, what she needs most is someone to simply sit with her, hold space for her emotions, and remind her she’s not alone.
2. Listen Without Judgment
Unplanned pregnancy may bring a flood of emotions—fear, confusion, shame, grief, and sometimes pressure from others. She may be considering abortion, adoption, parenting, or she may just be trying to make sense of her thoughts.
Resist the urge to rush into solutions or express strong opinions. Instead, ask open-ended questions like:
- “What’s been the hardest part of all this?”
- “What are you most worried about?”
- “How can I best support you right now?”
And then—just listen. Really listen. Let her know that her feelings are valid and that she has the right to take the time she needs to process everything.
3. Encourage Her to Explore All Her Options
Sometimes, women feel rushed into a decision because they think they have no other choice. Gently remind her that she has time to gather information and consider every course of action—whether that’s parenting, adoption, or abortion.
You might say:
- “Would it help to talk to someone who understands all the options?”
- “I know a place where you can talk things through in a safe and private setting—no pressure, just support.”
- “Your health is important right now. Would you like to find a place that will answer your questions honestly without a profit motive?”
Let her know that she deserves space to think, and that it’s okay to ask questions or change her mind.
4. Offer Practical Help
If she chooses to visit a pregnancy center, offer to go with her. If she needs time to think or a break from the noise, offer your home as a safe place. If she’s struggling financially or emotionally, help her find resources or make a plan.
Sometimes support looks like:
- Driving her to an appointment.
- Bringing her a meal.
- Helping her talk to her partner or family.
Even small gestures can provide a sense of stability and hope.
5. Remind Her That She Is Strong and Loved
Facing an unplanned pregnancy can cause a woman to doubt herself—her strength, her abilities, and her future. Your voice can remind her of who she is. Tell her:
- “You are brave, even if you don’t feel it right now.”
- “You are not alone in this.”
- “I’m here for you, no matter what.”
Words of reassurance can stay with her long after the conversation ends.
We’re Here to Help, Too
At Care Net Pregnancy Center of Houston, we offer free, confidential support to anyone facing an unplanned pregnancy. If your friend or sister needs someone to talk to, or if you need help knowing how to support her, we’re here for both of you. It’s easy to schedule a free and confidential appointment.
You can reach out to us anytime—no pressure, no judgment. Just a safe place to talk and find the information and care you both need.
You’re Not Alone in Supporting Her
You don’t have to have all the answers. You don’t have to fix everything. Just by being there, listening, and helping her find the right support, you are already doing something incredibly powerful.