When my partner was pregnant with our first little one nearly a decade ago, I was bombarded with advice on how to navigate life with a pregnant woman. Some of it was sweet and supportive, but much of it missed the mark and left me feeling unprepared. So, let’s get real. Here are the pregnancy insights I wish someone had shared with me:
- Jot down a list when you’re sent out for cravings. Bringing home the wrong flavor of taco sauce could lead to disaster.
- Comparing your partner to large items (like a house or a whale) makes you look like a clueless jerk.
- The hottest thing a soon-to-be dad can do? Attend those ob-gyn visits with her.
- When she’s crying, your best move is to stay silent. Just be there.
- Surrender the thermostat controls. Trust me, it’s for your own good.
- It’s fine to feel tired, but unless you’re growing a human, keep that to yourself.
- Your old sweatpants and T-shirts are NOT a suitable substitute for maternity wear, so keep that budget tip to yourself.
- Joking that morning sickness feels like a hangover is funny for about three seconds—so don’t.
- When you’re tasked with getting pastries, send her cell phone photos of the options. It saves you from a second trip!
- Pregnancy amplifies everything—including how loudly you snore. Don’t take it personally if you find yourself on the couch.
- Steer clear of the term “cankle.” Just don’t.
- No father is too tall to harm the baby—so just go for it.
- Never question how often she needs to pee. Just assume it’s always.
- Most of your role is reassuring her that she’s going to be an amazing mom.
- The weeks leading up to childbirth feel like standing at the edge of a cliff.
- Comparing a baby kicking in the womb to a scene from a Sci-Fi movie is basically saying she’s carrying an alien. You do the math.
- Keep all your thoughts about hormones to yourself.
- Don’t hesitate to argue with her about how beautiful she is. Seriously.
- Spoil her rotten. She’s growing your child—need I say more?
There are plenty more tips out there, but these should help new dads get started. And if you have any gems to share, drop them in the comments! New fathers could use all the advice they can get—believe me.
For further reading on home insemination, check out this insightful post. If you’re exploring fertility options, this is a great resource, and for comprehensive information, visit NHS IVF information.
In summary, navigating pregnancy as a father requires a mix of understanding, humor, and a whole lot of support. Embrace the journey, and remember, you’re in this together!