Although women are the ones responsible for carrying and giving birth to the baby, this doesn’t mean men just get a back-row seat. All the physical, emotional, and mental changes a woman undergoes during pregnancy require an equal amount of understanding, empathy, and support from their partners. Pregnancy can be both an exhilarating and overwhelming experience for both parents, so it’s important you learn to lean on each other for help. For all you soon-to-be dads out there, here are five ways you can contribute towards making this journey more enjoyable for your pregnant mommas.

1. Be Emotionally Supportive

Pregnancy can prove to be an emotional rollercoaster for women, due to either hormonal changes which cause mood swings and heightened sensitivity, or just simply stress and anxiety. During these challenging times, it’s vital that their partner be empathetic and emotionally supportive. You should listen to her fears, concerns, and anxieties without any judgment, offering comfort whenever she needs it. Show constant reassurance, reminding her of her strength and capabilities and that she’s not in this alone. Even during her more feisty moments, try to be patient and understanding. Simple gestures like a warm hug or comforting words can make a huge difference in her overall well-being.

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2. Share the Load

The journey to giving birth can seem like an especially long one when it's plagued with fatigue, morning sickness, and physical discomforts. It's important for dads to step up during these hard times, sharing in the household chores to reduce the burden on their pregnant wives. Be proactive about doing the grocery shopping, cleaning, and other tasks she usually handles. You want to make sure she has enough time to rest and relax throughout the day so she doesn’t feel physically drained. Doing so won’t just provide her with physical relief, but it’s also a wonderful way to express your appreciation and respect for her ever-changing body.

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3. Attend Prenatal Appointments

Join your wife on her trips to prenatal appointments so it makes her feel well supported and cared for. These informative sessions are also an opportunity for you to be an active participant in the pregnancy. Don’t be afraid to ask plenty of questions and try to understand the medical aspects of the pregnancy. You’ll also get the chance to bond with your unborn child - hearing the baby’s heartbeat or seeing him/her on the ultrasound screen is certainly a profound experience you’ll want to share together.

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4. Educate Yourself

Don’t be ashamed if you know little to nothing about the vast subjects of pregnancy, childbirth, or infant care. Parenthood is all about learning and growing together, so it’s time to hit the books! The more you learn, the more you can support your wife. Take the time to educate yourself about the pregnancy process, potential complications, and the stages of labour. There are a number of steps you can take to become more educated on the topic, from reading books, attending birthing classes, to speaking with healthcare providers or other experienced parents. Having all this knowledge allows you to become a useful resource for your wife, easing her concerns so you can both make informed decisions together. 

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5. Plan for Postpartum Care

When the joyous day finally arrives, it’s undoubtedly one that’s filled with excitement, relief, and anxiety. To prepare for this exhausting day, you should plan ahead for the postpartum period. Discuss parental leave, ask for help from family or hired professionals, and prepare all of the baby’s essentials ahead of time. One thing men should be aware of is that postpartum recovery can take time and will involve physical discomfort and emotional struggle. Postpartum depression is one possible outcome that you should definitely be prepared for. During this time, your partner is going to need all the support she can get.

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There’s nothing more valuable during a woman’s pregnancy than a supportive partner who is understanding, patient, and shares in her responsibilities. This journey into parenthood is more than just the arrival of your baby, it’s also about the transformation of two people becoming parents. Although the road ahead may be filled with many hurdles and obstacles, focus on working together so it becomes a cherished memory rather than a difficult one.