Whether you are new to parenthood or have been through this before, whether this pregnancy is planned or unplanned, you and your partner may be experiencing a range of emotions. Pregnancy is a time of changes and unknowns, and it is important to support each other.

If your partner is pregnant, learning ways to support both them and yourself during this busy time can lead to a happier and less stressful experience. Take a look at the resources below to find a place to start.

What can I do to support my pregnant partner?

Educate yourself: Learn about the stages of pregnancy, labour, and delivery. Resources like Baby’s Best Chance or Your Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy can be very helpful.

Attend appointments and help make decisions: Accompany your partner to prenatal appointments and ultrasounds when possible. This shows your support and helps you stay informed.

Communicate: Keep open lines of communication with your partner. Listen to their concerns and feelings, and share your own.

Offer physical support: Take more responsibilities to help reduce your partner’s stress and physical strain, such as cleaning, cooking, and offering back and foot massages to ease stress and aches.

Prepare for Baby: Work together to prepare for the baby’s arrival. This includes setting up the nursery, purchasing baby supplies, and planning for the birth.

Healthy Lifestyle: Encourage and participate in healthy lifestyle choices, such as balanced nutrition and regular exercise.

Be Understanding of Emotional Changes: Pregnancy can bring a range of emotions. Be patient and understanding with your partner.

Offer emotional support: Ask your partner what they need, show affection, and support lifestyle changes such as cutting back on alcohol, eating well, encouraging rest, and taking walks together.

Reassurance: Offer reassurance and affirmations. Let your partner know that they are doing a great job and that you are in this together.

Bonding with Baby: Spend time bonding with the baby through activities like feeding, changing diapers, bathing, and playtime.

Support with Feeding: If your partner is breastfeeding, offer support by helping with positioning, bringing the baby for feedings, and ensuring your partner has everything they need.

Night Shifts: Take turns with nighttime duties to ensure both you and your partner get some rest.

Share the Load: Talk about what support they need and then help in the ways that you can. If you have other children, you may want to handle more of their care. Give your partner breaks to rest, exercise or do other activities.

Watch for Signs of Postpartum Depression: Be aware of the signs of postpartum depression in both your partner and yourself. If either of you feels overwhelmed, seek help from a healthcare provider.

Self-Care: Encourage each other to take breaks and practice self-care. This can include activities like exercise, hobbies, and socializing with friends and family.

Seek Support for Yourself

How can a partner get support during pregnancy?

Partners also need care and attention during pregnancy. You may feel like you are expected to do all the helping and giving. With all the attention on your growing baby, you may feel ignored by family and friends. You may worry about the safety of your partner and baby during childbirth. It is also common to feel nervous about your role during labour.

Talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns about your own health. Your partnership and family will be stronger if you both get the help and support you need.

Talk to Someone: It’s important for partners to have someone to talk to about their own feelings and concerns. This could be a friend, family member, or counsellor.

Helpful Resources