Pregnancy is an exciting time but it also may cause the expectant mother to feel a bit overwhelmed especially while dealing with changes to her body and hormones.
As a pregnant woman’s partner, there’s a lot you can do to help her cope with the unknowns that come along with introducing a new life into the world. At FemmePro OB/GYN, our team supports the mom-to-be and you, her partner, during all three trimesters. We can help you learn as much about pregnancy as possible and what to expect at each phase.
Here are some tips to help you fully support your partner so that she has a healthy, happy, and positive pregnancy experience.
Doctor or Midwife visits are when a woman learns crucial information about the growing baby inside her. Ask her if you can join her at these appointments, so you get the information first-hand and see milestones like the baby’s heartbeat and gender together.
These shared visits will strengthen your bond with your partner and make you feel closer to your baby – even before it’s born. During these visits, you also support your partner in making decisions about prenatal testing, so she doesn’t feel that the burden lies entirely with her. You can also help put together a birthing plan.
Doctor/Midwife visits are usually spaced about four weeks apart for the first 28 weeks of pregnancy. They’re scheduled, in general, once every two weeks during weeks 28-36. In the last six weeks, you will see your Obstetrician or Midwife at FemmPro OB/GYN once a week until delivery.
Your pregnant partner may need a lot of encouragement and reassurance during these nine months. If you’re not sure what she needs, ask!
Intimacy, like holding hands, hugs, and massage, can make your partner feel close to you. She may want less sex as she’s tired and uncomfortable, or she may desire more at certain times. Keep lines of communication open to maintain your connection.
Model healthy eating, which, in turn, helps her also make smart dietary choices that support her and the baby’s nutritional needs. Or, better yet, do the grocery shopping and pick up healthy snacks. Volunteer to cook dinner. Offer to go on walks with her, to support exercise and give you alone time together.
While the mom-to-be gets all the attention, your feelings, health and well-being are equally important. It’s normal to be unsure about what life will be like once the baby is born. You may worry about your partner’s health and the baby’s.
Discuss your concerns and fears with your partner. Let her know if you’re worried about being present during labor and delivery. It’s also normal to have worries about how life might change once there’s a new addition to the family.
When you convey your feelings, it only deepens your relationship with your partner and helps you remember you’re in this parenting thing together.
If you or your partner is expecting, contact FemmPro OB/GYN in Garden City, New York & North Massapequa, New York, to get the prenatal care and education needed for a healthy pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Call one of our offices today or use the online tool to set up an appointment.
