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3 Things I Wish My Partner Understood About My Pregnancy

Pregnancy brings with it so…MUCH. There are changes in emotions, changes around the house, and even changes in your relationship with your partner. Research shows when partners are involved throughout the pregnancy, new moms have a better overall experience, according to What to Expect.

Sure, as a parent-to-be, you want to be involved. You’ve read up on going to doctor’s appointments, picking out nursery furniture, and even the benefits of breastfeeding. But can you ever fully understand what your partner is going through during these nine months?

Research shows when partners are involved throughout the pregnancy, new moms have a better overall experience.

Well, take a look at this inside info. Here are three top thoughts pregnant mamas would love for their partners to grasp, along with action tips you can use to wow your wives:

1. There is a living being inside of me!
   Yes, sure, you know that at a medical and intellectual level. But emotionally? Well, pregnancy can be wonderful and weird all at the same time. Some women say having a baby inside can feel a bit alien. Others can get happily overwhelmed by the magnificence of growing a baby. Put yourself in her shoes for a moment and think what it would be like if that baby were inside of you.
   Partner action tip: Show your interest in this amazing experience by feeling the baby when it moves. Talk to your little one. Play music and read to the baby. Ask your partner what she’s using to track the baby’s progress and follow along. Knowing how big the baby is and what’s going on at each stage can help you feel more a part of the journey.
2. Pregnancy hormones really are crazy.
   One minute your partner is super happy; the next, she’s ready to bite your head off. In truth, this is not how she wants to act. Surges in hormones during pregnancy are the cause for both mood swings and morning sickness. They’re also the reason for her constant trips to the bathroom. She would love to have better control over her emotions. But she doesn’t right now. You’ll just have to get used to it for a while.
   Partner action tip: Even if you don’t understand, pretend you do. Go along with the ridiculous requests, like ice cream at midnight. Sometimes your partner will just need to vent, so be prepared to listen. Plan a surprise night out so you both can unwind. Hint: Afternoon dates are also great, when she’s less likely to be wiped out.
3. Pregnancy is absolutely and completely exhausting.
   You’ve probably heard this already. And you may be witnessing it on a daily basis. She’s not being lazy. Pregnancy truly does take a toll on a woman’s body. Know that this is temporary and her energy level should return to normal eventually.
   Partner action tip: Take a look at what needs to be done around the house and see where you can pitch in. Let your partner nap when she gets home from work and have dinner waiting when she wakes up. No, you’re not the maid, but you’re her partner and she needs this support right now. Other ideas for helping out include:
   • Look up the details on adding your child to the family’s health insurance plan, and mark the deadline on your calendar.
   • Research childcare options if daycare or a babysitter will be needed after your infant joins the family.
   • Offer a shoulder rub or foot massage.
   • What are you interested in? Like gadgets? Tell your wife you’ll take care of researching noise monitors. More of a tool person? Put the crib together. Into music? Create a playlist for the labor and delivery room.
    

When you take these steps to better understand what your pregnant partner is going through, your relationship can grow as you welcome this child into your lives.

Source: BabyCenter.com; WhattoExpect.com