Pregnancy is often romanticized as a time of bliss and glowing beauty, but the reality can be quite different. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, know that you’re not alone. From cravings to discomfort, the journey can be challenging. That’s why it’s essential for your partner to step up and provide support. Here’s a handy list of ways your partner can help you through this transformative time:
- Join her for late-night snack attacks, and always ask if she wants more.
- Suggest giving her a foot massage to help ease her aches.
- When she brings up baby names or nursery ideas, enthusiastically reply with, “Absolutely!”
- Compliment her appearance and tell her she looks amazing.
- Keep the snacks coming; she’ll appreciate it.
- Attend all the prenatal appointments together.
- Stay calm and composed when discussing topics like “discharge” or “cramping.”
- Gift her a comfortable body pillow to help with sleep.
- And yes, tacos are a must.
- Avoid indulging in foods she can’t have.
- Don’t sip cocktails in front of her unless you want to risk her ire.
- Take charge of cleaning areas she can’t easily reach.
- Light-heartedly tease her friends who don’t understand pregnancy struggles.
- Give her belly kisses to show affection.
- Offer lower back rubs; they are a lifesaver.
- Don’t hesitate to offer another foot rub.
- Keep the bathrooms clean and tidy.
- Share in the emotional moments, even if it’s over a commercial.
- Take on the laundry duties without being asked.
- Gently brush her hair and remind her she’s beautiful.
- Avoid commenting on any odd body changes she may experience.
- Embrace her ideas for fun baby reveals.
- Get involved in planning the nursery.
- Be cautious when discussing baby names she has chosen.
- Sometimes, it’s best to stay quiet on the topic.
- Let someone else, like a family member, voice their opinions on names.
- Keep the chocolate flowing; it’s a mood booster.
- Listen carefully as she shares her pregnancy woes.
- Agree that yoga pants and oversized shirts are the pinnacle of maternity fashion.
- Offer her yet another foot rub.
- Fantasize together about baby-related things.
- If her libido spikes, be open to indulging her.
- When her mood swings hit, don’t bring up past conversations about intimacy.
- Validate her feelings about weight gain; those scales are clearly rigged.
- In the third trimester, keep complaints to yourself—just be supportive.
- Tear out the scary sections from pregnancy books that create unnecessary fear.
- Avoid bringing up labor unless she does; just be a good listener.
- It’s best not to ask about long-term effects on her body.
- When she wonders about the baby’s traits, steer clear of mentioning your less favorable features.
- Do the laundry again; it’s a never-ending task.
- Let her have the best side of the bed.
- Randomly express your love for her; it goes a long way.
- Remind her of her beauty regularly.
- A little more chocolate never hurts.
- When she vents about family comments, nod and listen attentively.
- Collaborate with her to create a comprehensive birth plan.
- Include time for her to rest in that plan, if possible.
- If she wants a photographer for the big day, support her decision.
- If she’s up for a Facebook Live during the event, just go with it.
- If she dreams of giving birth in an unconventional setting, help make it happen.
- Should she prefer a planned C-section, be there every step of the way.
- If you slip up and frustrate her, join her in a snack binge to ease the tension.
Remember, while this list may seem a bit humorous, your partner is navigating a whirlwind of emotions and physical changes. Show your support with kindness, chocolate, and an open heart. For more insights into home insemination and pregnancy, check out this resource, or learn more about the process at Make a Mom and Understanding Gender Neutral Parenting.
Summary
Pregnancy can be a challenging time for expectant mothers, filled with emotional highs and lows. Partners can offer valuable support by being attentive, participating in discussions about the baby, and providing physical comfort. Simple gestures like foot rubs, compliments, and shared snacks can make a significant difference.