Family planning is a very important endeavor in the modern world. It’s an essential part of building one’s future and the future of their family. For people who are in relationships, clear communication is a crucial part of it.
Navigating the topic of family planning can initially seem daunting, but it is an empowering process that strengthens trust, deepens intimacy, and paves the way for a good future.
And we’re here to help you, lads, start having this conversation with your partners. Because when it comes to sexual and reproductive health, we have to #DoItRight!
Why is it important to discuss family planning?
Family planning helps people in so many ways: financially, mentally, and emotionally. It can help you secure a fulfilling future for yourself and your partner, which is why it’s beneficial to go over it as a couple. If you see a future with the person you’re with, then discussing family planning with them is a must.
Here are some tips to help you begin that conversation.
Establish a safe, supportive space
This is a necessary thing to do in a relationship and is even part of the bare minimum when you have a girlfriend or wife. Relationships thrive in safe and open-minded spaces where both partners can feel safe enough to share their feelings.
Before you discuss family planning with your partner, make sure they’re in a good enough mood and that you two are comfortable talking about matters that’ll most likely be brought up: parenthood, contraception, money, etc.
Talk about what you want
Communication is key, especially when talking about your future as a couple. You have to tell your partner the things you want. You also have to ask them about what they’d like. And remember to be completely honest about your wishes.
Consider the following questions when discussing family planning:
- Do you want to have children? If so, how many?
- If having children is on the table, will you be able to afford it?
- How do you intend to keep the relationship alive while caring for a child/children?
- If having children isn’t on your mind, what contraceptives or family planning methods do you want to use for that?
For people who already have children, these are the big questions to ask:
- So far, how does parenting feel?
- Is it something you’re ready to do all over again?
- Were there any complications during the last pregnancy?
- If you’re open to having more kids, will you be able to afford it?
All these questions should help the two of you jumpstart a conversation about the future of your relationship and/or family.
Listen, and be prepared to make adjustments or sacrifices. Keep in mind that you and your partner are two different people who may have different desires. It may be necessary to make changes in your plans for the future should there be any conflicting views or unexpected developments.
Being open to compromise and finding common ground will strengthen your relationship and create a more harmonious path forward in your family planning journey. Remember, this is a shared endeavor, and working together will lead to a more fulfilling and unified vision for the future.
Talk about how you want to achieve your goals
Family planning doesn’t end when partners tell each other the things they want. Next comes the topic of how you as a couple intend to work on the future you’ve envisioned for yourselves.
Here are some questions to help you identify the methods you’d like to utilize for your family planning:
- If you’re open to having children (or more children,) how soon would you like to try conceiving?
- How do you envision balancing career and family life? Will one partner take a break from work to care for the children, or will you both continue working?
- If starting a family is a long way down the road, are there any specific financial goals or milestones you’d like to achieve before having a child?
- And if you don’t plan on starting a family in the near future, how do you intend to avoid any unexpected pregnancies?
- If you’re already happy with the number of people in your family, what contraceptive/s would you like to use to maintain that number?
Discussing these questions will allow you to align your visions and create a roadmap for your relationship. Remember that family planning is an ongoing conversation, and it’s essential to revisit and update your plans as your circumstances and desires evolve.
As for family planning options and contraceptives, we’ve got you covered! Here are some of the modern methods of contraception available to everyone in the Philippines:
Feel free to click on any of the links above to learn more about these contraceptive methods. These are not only effective in preventing unintended pregnancies but also provide various benefits and considerations depending on individual preferences and needs.
It’s essential to discuss these options openly with your partner and consult a healthcare professional to find the most suitable method for both of you. Remember that family planning is a joint decision, and by exploring these options together, you can make informed choices that align with your future goals and aspirations.
As the man in the relationship, you are often seen as the pillar of the household, or you will be in the future. Therefore, it is essential to be a sturdy support on which your family’s health, wealth, and happiness can depend.
Family planning isn’t just simply about staying safe in the present. It’s about preparing for your future and making sure that you can live life to the fullest. So remember to #DoItRight, friends!
Sources:
- Lindberg, S. (2021, March 19). Planning your family: Tips, questions to consider, and more. Healthline. https://bit.ly/3q2tVhc
- Image from Freepik
