“We are pregnant” is what an expectant couple often says when announcing the news. Yet it is the woman who carries the child while going through physical discomfort and hormonal/emotional turmoil. Obviously, men cannot take on those burdens directly, but what they can do is be there for their partners. Having a guy supporting and showing love and care is the true definition of ‘we are pregnant.’
There are so many changes happening in and around women, but with a partner’s support, all can be well. It doesn’t matter whether it’s her fourth pregnancy or her first; the support should be the same. Even more, if the pregnancy is her second or fourth as in that case, besides carrying a baby, she also has to care for another child, or two.
So, how can men be the best-supporting partners during this wondrous but challenging phase of a woman’s life? Here are a few ideas that can help you ask your partner to consider, and hopefully provide all nine:
Provide a listening ear
Irrespective of the number of their pregnancies, a woman always feels scared or nervous. There are hidden fears or issues that they face every day. You cannot take away their pain or anxiety, but you can listen to them. Right? Offer an attentive ear and share any apprehension or anxiety you have about becoming a father for the first time or again. The key is to keep the communication line open.
Get comfortable clothes
As the baby and the bump grow, women start feeling discomfort in their bodies. Even if they fit in their old clothes, they may feel tight or uncomfortable. Therefore, pay attention to this and buy them comfortable, loose yet stylish clothes, like maternity dresses. Take them out to shop for a few clothes for each trimester. They don’t have to change their whole wardrobe, but a few changes are necessary, and you should let them.
Follow instructions to the tee
Do you think it is a lame advice? Even if it is, you have to follow this. There does not have to be a reason why she is asking you for a hot cup of cocoa in the scorching heat. Or why she wants to clean the entire wardrobe while she cannot walk. If she is asking you to do something, do it immediately.
Take charge of snacks
Pregnant women feel hungry often, and it is also recommended they snack every few hours. It helps with their calorie intake. Take charge of this by buying healthy snacks and packing them in snack-sized boxes. Whether you go with her or she goes alone, ensure she always has snacks on hand. Check every day and refill the containers as needed.
Help with nausea
Being pregnant means women get nauseous often. Anything can trigger it—food, smell, or more. The best thing is to keep the trigger away from them. Keep things that can help with their nausea handy. Have peppermint oil on hand or try other home-remedies for nausea that suits her.
Surprise with little gifts
Keeping a pregnant woman happy and healthy is a partner’s priority. A great way to keep a sense of fun and joy in a relationship is to surprise a partner with little gifts. Whether it’s even old standards such dark chocolate truffles or flowers, anything that you know she will love is worth bringing.
Go to all the doctor’s appointments
Yes, a few times, you may not be able to go, and that’s fine. But try to attend as many appointments and scans as you can. Your partner will appreciate your support and your company. It is the best, and having you near will ease any anxiety she has.
Cook and clean
A partner can help with cleaning duties during a pregnancy. Learning to learn to cook a few simple dishes is also a pretty basic necessity – every adult should have a few good recipes up their sleeves. It will also help after the baby comes. Getting takeout might work sometimes, but not always practical. So, partners, it’s time to get domestic.
Accept and help with the inevitable cravings
Pregnancy means having weird cravings for most women. It can be pickles or a weird combination that makes you sick to the stomach. However, don’t question it and stock up.
Every pregnancy is different, but what is not different are the challenges a woman faces. By doing these little things, a partner can make a woman’s pregnancy a positive experience, keeping her happy, pleasantly surprised and, most importantly, loved.
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