10 Top Tips for Surviving HER Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time of great physical, mental and emotional changes and not just for the future mother. Fathers-to-be also experiences a huge shift as they prepare for the arrival of their child while also taking on the role of partner and supporter during this journey.
So don’t worry future dads, we haven’t forgotten about you! Here are 10 ways to make your wife’s pregnancy a smoother, more enjoyable time for the both of you as you get ready to make this incredible step.
1. Connect.
Reach out to other fathers you know (including your own) and get their thoughts and advice. You can also start planning activities for your families to do together. Never underestimate how beneficial it can be to talk with someone you can relate to.
2. Go the extra mile.
Your wife will need a lot from you during this time and while hormonal shifts and the symptoms of pregnancy can be wearing at times, it’s important to be considerate and think of little ways to help. Whether it’s taking over the grocery shopping or scheduling her a prenatal massage.
3. Be prepared.
Many women joke about experiencing “preggo brain” during their pregnancy and feeling like they can’t keep everything straight. This is where you come in. Keep documents like your insurance and birth plan organized as well as a list of people to update once labor begins.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Echoing point No. 1, know when it’s time to bring in some assistance and don’t be worried about it. This could mean asking a buddy to help build the crib or checking in with your parents if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
5. Be informed.
Between books and blogs, there are so many resources available to help you prepare for all the stages of pregnancy, childbirth and being a parent. Do your homework and it will help you feel less overwhelmed and enable you to be more involved in the process.
6. Take an active role.
Your wife may feel like she’s doing all the work which, biologically, may be true, but taking an active role in the process will allow her to feel supported. Be at doctor’s appointments and classes and take charge of a certain task like preparing the nursery.
7. Stay healthy.
It’s crucial for both your partner and your child that you take care of yourself. The first few months of parenthood (and beyond) will leave you quite exhausted and you don’t need to be sick on the sidelines. Eat well and exercise regularly.
8. Get yourselves out of the house.
Nesting is a special time but it can become too much. You need to take some time to breathe in the fresh air and get some vitamin D. Take your wife on an evening walk to keep you both moving and enjoy this time with just the two of you.
9. Pick a favorite activity to destress.
If you have a hobby or regular activity, don’t leave it behind. Stress can impact everything from your weight to how you sleep so make sure you take some time for you to unwind and feel more centered and engaged.
10. Keep the lines of communication open.
This is the most important point of all — talk to your partner. You’re going through this pregnancy together and vocalizing your wants and needs is the best thing you can do for each other. As long as you keep talking, there’s nothing you can’t get through.
Follow these suggestions, expectant fathers, and you’ll look back on your wife’s pregnancy with even more fondness. Whether it’s the first child or the fifth, you and your partner are in this together.
