It was a challenging second pregnancy for my partner, Lisa. She spent nearly nine months feeling exhausted, achy, and ready for it to be over. While we both eagerly anticipated meeting our new little one (the new boss, just like the old boss!), Lisa was particularly anxious to be free from the discomfort caused by our little guy who seemed in no hurry to make his grand entrance. Yet, despite the challenges, there were moments that made the journey feel a little easier (though, admittedly, I can’t claim to fully understand what she was going through).
As a dad, my experience of pregnancy is obviously different from Lisa’s. I didn’t endure the physical pains or gain the extra weight. I didn’t experience odd cravings. I simply initiated the process and then did my best to support her emotionally (navigating her shifting moods), physically (offering back rubs and foot massages), and even irrationally (making late-night runs to find her favorite snacks).
Even with my constant presence, my perspective as an expectant father was unique. I’ve never had anything growing inside me except maybe a few weird thoughts (seriously, who doesn’t love coconut-scented shampoo?). Nevertheless, dads can still get swept up in the wonder of it all in our own way.
Take, for instance, one particular night when we had about a month left before our second child was due. We were snuggled in bed, watching my soon-to-be-born son move around. He was much more active than my first child had been, and while that often frustrated Lisa, it was mesmerizing to watch and feel.
That night, as we lay side by side, we could clearly sense his flips, rolls, and kicks. I had experienced this once before, but I still found it awe-inspiring: A new life developing inside another person, growing day by day, slowly becoming a little human, ready to enter the world. It truly is an incredible miracle.
With just a month to go before we would welcome this innocent, perfect child into our lives, Lisa and I contemplated the beautiful complexity of it all—ready and yet not ready at all. Almost instinctively, I placed my hand on her belly. In that instant, as if he sensed our presence, our unborn child pushed up against my hand, reaching out in a way that felt profound.
In that moment, I craved a connection with Lisa too. I took her hand, looked into her eyes, and said, “This is some strange stuff!” After all, I’m still a guy!
This article was originally published on May 10, 2016. If you’re interested in more about the journey of pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and to learn more about home insemination options, visit this blog post. For a great selection of at-home kits, see this authority site.
Summary:
In this light-hearted reflection, Jake Thompson shares his perspective as a dad during his wife Lisa’s challenging second pregnancy. While he didn’t experience the physical challenges, his emotional support and awe at the miracle of life brought him closer to the journey. Through shared moments of anticipation and wonder, Jake emphasizes the unique bond formed in the experience of bringing a new life into the world.