Pregnancy is an amazing time in a woman’s life, but it’s also a very important time in her partner’s life. Sometimes, men are unsure where they fit into the equation and don’t know what they can do to become more active and involved in their partner’s pregnancy. Here are some ideas to help fathers-to-be get more involved in their partner’s pregnancy, as well as help them support their pregnant partner.
Talk About the Baby & Pregnancy
Women often complain that their partners seem uninterested in the baby or the pregnancy until the baby is actually born. Even if you don’t feel a connection to the baby quite yet, make an effort to do things relating to the pregnancy and baby with your partner. Go shopping for baby gear, offer input on names, help decorate the nursery. All of these little things will show your interest as well as show that you care!
Cook for Your Partner
Your pregnant partner may be exceptionally tired and lack the energy to cook meals the way she used to. If she is early in her pregnancy, she may suffer from morning sickness that can be triggered by smells. This can make cooking especially difficult. Show your partner you care and do the cooking!
Reassure Your Partner
Your pregnant partner may feel as though she’s less attractive while she’s pregnant than when she’s not. Reassure her that she’s still attractive. Pay her compliments, maintain a healthy sex life (so long as she has her doctor’s okay) and make gestures, such as buying flowers, to let her know she’s still the most beautiful woman in the world to you.
Talk to the Baby
Many women often feel their partner’s aren’t as attached to their pregnancy as they are. Talking to the baby can help your unborn baby to recognize your voice, as well as to melt your partner’s heart.
Refrain from Inappropriate Jokes
Men are natural jokers, however, making jokes at the expense of your pregnant partner is not a smart move. Your pregnant partner is likely very emotional due to the hormones that come with pregnancy, and even if she might take a joke about her expanding waistline in a positive light while not pregnant, it may be enough to send her into tears while she’s pregnant. Tread carefully and be sensitive when making jokes to your pregnant partner!
Support Your Partner’s Nesting
Pregnant women experience intense urges and desires to clean, organize and rearrange things. These urges are often referred to as the “nesting instinct.” If you notice your partner experiencing this instinctive urge to prepare for the baby’s arrival, offer your help! Help set up the crib, move furniture or reorganize the linen closet!
Pamper Her
Your pregnant partner is likely to become even more sore and achey as her pregnancy progresses. Help her to relieve some of this pain by offering her massages and back rubs. If you’re no good with massages, consider splurging and treating her to a spa day where she can relax and enjoy herself!
Attend a Childbirth Class with Her
A childbirth class may seem like its more geared towards women, but women’s partners play an invaluable role in the birth of their baby. Attending a childbirth class with your partner may help better prepare you for the birth of your child, as well as strengthen the bond between you and your partner during your journey into parenthood.
