How to Support Your Pregnant Partner

Your partner has given you the biggest news of your life- they’re expecting, and for the first time, you’re going to be a parent. Congratulations and happy first Father’s Day! Together, you will embark on life’s most exciting journey yet. Once the initial shock settles down, you may find that pregnancy can be difficult for couples as hormones begin to change. It is completely normal and okay to feel overwhelmed. With preparation and patience, pregnancy can be a joyous experience that brings you and your partner closer together.

Helping Out Around the House

Pregnancy comes with an onslaught of hurdles for your partner, and they may experience morning sickness, fatigue, and other exhausting health issues often. Whatever portion of the chores you usually carry becomes obsolete… They are carrying your baby! By doing more of the household duties like laundry, cooking, cleaning, and grocery shopping, you can take a huge burden off their shoulders and make them feel appreciated. 

Aside from that, there are some household chores that they would be better off avoiding for their health. For example, your partner shouldn’t be exposing themselves to harsh cleaners, so you can help out by cleaning the bathroom, or any other area that requires using harsh chemicals, during the pregnancy. Also, according to FirstCry Parenting, “Any task that requires you to climb should not be attempted. The weight gained during pregnancy alters the body’s centre of gravity and women are more prone to losing their balance. Tasks, like cleaning the ceiling fans or changing the curtains, are best delegated to someone else.” So, take it upon yourself to do these tasks without being asked. Your partner will surely appreciate it!

Fancying Funky Foods

Your partner, especially in the first trimester, may begin to experience all sorts of wacky cravings (at all times of the day and night). On the contrary, certain foods might also begin to make them feel nauseous. 

According to The UTSouthwestern Medical Center, “your partner may start craving weird foods. My wife ate cheese sticks, boiled eggs, and raspberries for about the first two months of her pregnancy. That’s what tasted good to her and didn’t make her sick.

If your partner feels this way, don’t ask what’s for dinner. Be an adult and cook your own food. If the smell of certain foods makes her nauseated, give it up for the time being. If your partner wants pickles at 2 a.m., get out of bed and go get them. You were responsible for half this pregnancy, so it’s the least you can do!” 

Being prepared for a plethora of weird new requests from your partner can help you roll with the punches when the time comes.

Being A Teammate

Make it a point to be present with your partner to as many doctor’s appointments, classes, etc. as you can. These experiences can not only be exciting for both of you, but it can also bring you closer together. What better way to bond than hearing your baby’s heartbeat for the first time, or being guided through a birthing class together. Being present at these activities can also help prepare you to best support your partner during and after birth.

Take a moment to acknowledge this wondrous stage of life your family is in. Don’t worry too much about being equipped with all the knowledge! The natural challenge that comes with the unknown can strengthen your relationship and set the stage for healthy parenting. 

Have a question? Reach out to us at hello@labellebump.com!