It is important to make a special effort to include your partner in your pregnancy, as it can be hard for them to feel involved. Pregnancy, especially if it is your first time, can be daunting, stressful and, for some, overwhelming, so it is not surprising that worrying about other people's feelings is the least of our concerns.
However, getting the dad involved is actually beneficial for both of you, not only will it make the nine months easier, it will also bing you closer together.
Talk about your feelings
If you aren’t feeling particularly great one day, tell him. This way, they can make the effort to make you feel better. If they don’t know how can they help you? Even rubbing your back or your feet can make them feel useful.
Go to antenatal classes together
Some men view antenatal classes as women-only so it is important you get your other half to go along with you. Here they will be able to understand a lot of what you are going through and what you are likely to go through during labour. Classes can teach your partner what they need to do in the labour ward, making sure they know that they have an actual role.
Go nursery shopping with each other
Going shopping for baby stuff together will help them to feel involved. Make sure they know that it’s not all down to you and that they have a say in what the baby sleeps in or buggies to buy.
Give them a long-term job to do
The fact that you are growing the baby can feel like they don’t have any significant role in your pregnancy, so give them a big job that they can focus on throughout the nine months. This might include getting them to decorate the nursery, getting the house ready or minding other children while you rest. Anything that makes them feel involved.
Talk about their role in the labour ward
Sit down with your partner and discuss the role they will play in the delivery room. Talk about cutting the cord, holding baby and where you would like them to be when you are push - beside your head or by your legs. Talk about your birth plan and make sure they are aware of what exactly you want - tell them that when the time comes you would like them to ensure as much of the plan is adhered to as possible, this includes pain relief you don't want or music you'd like playing.
