Is your partner expecting a baby? If this is your first child, don't be a helpless observer. Educate yourself by learning as much about pregnancy as you possibly can.
After all, research has proven that new mothers have a better overall pregnancy experience when their partners are actively involved.
Supporting your partner during pregnancy is a crucial element of embarking on the journey of parenthood. If this is you, here are six great ways to support your partner during pregnancy:
Help before she asks.
If you don't already, get your hands dirty. Housework is a shared chore and during pregnancy, you may notice your partner will want to rest more. Pick up the pieces and help her out as much as possible by doing the housework, weekly shopping and general household errands without having to be asked.
Stay educated.
The more you know the better you are. Antenatal classes are extremely important especially for first-time parents and most, if not all health care professionals will encourage both mothers and fathers-to-be to attend them. Antenatal classes by experienced midwives can prepare you for your baby's birth in a fun and informative way while alleviating any fears and anxieties associated with childbirth and parenthood.
Encourage her.
Your partner will have several ups and downs and she will need all the support and encouragement during her pregnancy. Encourage her to eat well, take plenty of naps and to exercise regularly throughout the pregnancy even if it means a brief walk around the neighbourhood in the early evening. Physical activity has been proven time and time again to relieve stress and will help build up stamina needed for the delivery ward.
Tell her she's beautiful.
There are many physical changes in the body during pregnancy and your partner may be feeling insecure about how she looks. This may seem so simple but compliment her, tell her she's beautiful. Help boost her self esteem and confidence every day with reassuring and kind words.
Be there.
Towards the last few weeks of pregnancy, your partner will most probably feel irritable and exhausted or frightened and worried about the birth. Be patient and listen to her woes. If she is feeling anxious, encourage her to open up and talk to you, a close family member or to her midwife.
Aid her recovery.
With all the buzz around the newborn baby, it is easy to forget how much your partner needs you right now. In the first few weeks, your partner will need lots of rest to help her recover from childbirth. Encourage her to lie in. Regardless of how she delivered, right now it is all about resting, healing and bonding with your baby.
