The moment the pregnancy test shows positive results, your life changes. There are a million things to be done over the next nine months, from finding the best place for maternal services to preparing your home for a new family member. It’s a lot, and many people find the time period both stressful and exciting. However, as the non-pregnant parent, you may not know how to help your partner through the stresses that come with being pregnant.
Educate Yourself on What They’re Going Through
If you’ve never had a child before, now is the time to learn everything you can about pregnancy and childbirth. This starts with the moment the test shows positive and ends with the actual giving of birth. Learn what side effects your partner will be feeling throughout the coming months, and how you can best support them. Not all people have the exact same symptoms throughout their pregnancy, but knowing what’s common and anticipating your partner’s needs will go a long way when it comes to supporting them.
Attend Every Appointment
Going to every prenatal appointment and parenting session that you’re able to will help more than you expect it to. It shows that you’re just as committed to this child as your partner is. Attending the appointments will help you stay up to date with the growth of your child and any potential health issues your partner is facing. This will also help bond you and your partner through this exciting time in your lives. Even if your schedule doesn’t allow you to visit every single appointment, do your best to make time for as many as you can. It may seem small to you, but your absence will definitely be felt.
Pick Up the Slack Whenever You Can
As the months pass and your partner’s belly continues to grow, it will be harder and harder for them to help around the house for a variety of reasons. Take on some more of the household chores, like cooking and cleaning, whenever possible. You’ll most likely have to make some lifestyle and dietary adjustments based on recommendations of your partner’s doctor (or their cravings). Try to take initiative whenever possible because, although your partner is incredible, pregnancy is a whole different hurdle that they’ll need your support in conquering.
Encourage Them to Relax
Rest and relaxation are a key part in helping pregnancy pass as smoothly as possible. In the third trimester, this is often doctor-ordered through bed rest, but taking it easy is something your partner should be doing the entire time they’re pregnant. Strenuous activity and a heavy mental load can be bad for the baby. Encourage your partner to go to a prenatal yoga class or try meditating with them at home. Kicking your feet up for a movie night is a great way to bond with your partner and keep them relaxed throughout this stressful time.
Just Be There
Emotional support is invaluable during the stress of pregnancy. If you’re both going through this for the first time, it can be incredibly scary. Listen to your partner’s concerns and fears. Even if the problems don’t seem reasonable to you, it’s important that you listen without judgement and work to solve the problems together.
Even though only one partner is pregnant, this time in your life requires the two of you to be a team. Support your partner however you can, and don’t forget to get excited as the time comes for your little one to arrive.
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