Q&A

If an unmarried couple gets pregnant, should they get married?

Raphael BenedictLast Updated: December 30, 2018
1 minute read
If an unmarried couple gets pregnant, should they get married?

This isn’t a straightforward yes-or-no answer, since every case is different. However, if you’re talking about if two people who are incompatible and unfit for marriage should marry just because of a pregancy i’d say: no. Pregnancy should not be a primary reason to marry.

I advise that they wait till the child is born to make a decision. This will help them discern their relationship even better and know if they’re able to be married or not.

If they discover, in the course of the discernment, that they’re not compatible, they can give the baby up for adoption as this is better than either having a teenage mom raise the baby or a couple who don’t like each other marrying and raising a child in a hostile environment. Adoption brings it’s own challenges but is better since it gives the child the chance to grow up in a loving, stable home.

If they discover they’re compatible with each other and can bear the financial and emotional weight of starting a family, then they can be married when they’re ready.

There’s need to consult with a professional – a priest, a counselor or someone very wise to weigh their options rather than simply take any option that seems okay to them at a particular time. Needless to say, abortion is not one of the options to be discussed.

Raphael BenedictLast Updated: December 30, 2018
1 minute read

Raphael Benedict

Raphael Benedict is a Catholic who wants nothing but to spread the catholic faith to reach the ends of the world. Make this possible by always sharing any article or prayers posted on your social media platforms. Remain blessed
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5 Comments

  2. Don’t agree that they have to get married, but I believe if they are compatible that they should. I don’t believe that children should be exposed to any kind of abuse, whether it is observed or experienced. Have worked with too many children of abuse who have suffered serious physical, emotional and spiritual harm. Many parents don’t even know, or acknowledge, the extent of the harm that can be done. That said, a time of separation with couples and family counseling can do a lot to increase resilience in the marriage, the family and the individual members of the family. Past hurts are not forgotten, but a willing spirit and changed habits can help a family heal and move forward.

  4. I don’t think they can be married in the Church if the bride is pregnant. It leaves open a cause for nullity because they can say they didn’t marry with free choice–even if they agree to it in their vows.

  6. I just agree they should get married. I have lived through this . Believe me it’s so important. I have 11 children. My first marriage my husband was abusive. We survived .The children need their mother. This world is to much with the idea of young girls giving up their children. The road is difficult but it doesn’t mean that they can’t do it. Looking back I am so happy that I kept my oldest son the reason for us getting married. He and all of my children are the best thing in my life besides my 2ND husband.Now we have 19 grandchildren.

  8. disagree, I think they should get married. The child has two parents even it the marriage doesn’t last both parents will have rights and responsibility for the child. Sadly not married increases odds of abortion, dad might just save the life of his child.

  10. disagree, I think they should get married. The child has two parents even it the marriage doesn’t last both parents will have rights and responsibility for the child. Sadly not married increases odds of abortion, dad might just save the life of his child.

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