Because being a team during pregnancy is so important!

Having a Baby is a beautiful thing, but it’s certainly a very challenging one as well—in the most rewarding and life changing way. Regardless of whether you are the expectant mother or the supportive Partner, both parents have a vital and valuable role to play throughout the entire pregnancy, labor, and childbirth process. With that being said, it’s also not uncommon for a mom-to-be to feel like her partner isn’t as involved as she’d ideally like him to be (sorry, guys, we know you’re trying!).

So what can you do to encourage your partner to get involved pre-childbirth? Don’t put it all on your own shoulders; instead, remember that you both need to balance the practices and responsibilities leading up to the arrival of your new bundle of joy! After all, your growing baby will be both of your responsibilities from here on out, and you will both want to be open, honest, and involved throughout the entire process. Here are some tips for making sure that both you and your partner stay engaged throughout one of the most rewarding, eye-opening, and beautiful experiences of your life:

Participate in childbirth prep activities together

Whenever possible, both parents should strive to attend all birthing and education classes and midwife or doctor appointments together. When you’re having a baby together, there is so much to learn that it’s extremely important for both parents to get educated on the aspects of labor, childbirth, and everything to expect, especially because your roles are different and unique. You don’t want to be responsible for relaying important information from your doctor or childbirth education coach. You should be learning together. It may be difficult sometimes due to scheduling and emotions, but it’s worth it in the long run. When everyone is on the same page, there’s almost a guarantee for a confident and unique, safe childbirth experience. In addition, I have been told, time and time again by my students, that taking a class together creates a special pre-baby bonding experience. Once information is obtained, “aha” moments occur, the actual birth becomes more real, and the entire mindset around birth shifts, there is an elevated excitement that can be shared. What an awesome, unexpected benefit!

Listen to each other’s opinions

When you’re having a baby, and especially when you’re carrying one in your belly, it’s hard to admit that you may not always know best, but it can be true. Be sure to listen to the needs and opinions of your partner. From the decision regarding baby names, to the type of birthing experience that each of you has in mind, it’s important to make family decisions together. Too often one partner feels like they have no say in the life (or in this case, development!) of their baby, and this could lead to potential speed bumps in communication. Be open, converse with one another, and voice your own opinions and concerns. You’re in this together and you need to be there for each other.

Be conscious of your actions

There is no denying that there are a TON of hormones on the loose during a pregnancy, and that emotions may sometimes be flying from one extreme to the next. Still, it’s important to be conscious of how your actions may affect your partner and your relationship.

Don’t get me wrong—each member of the relationship must remember to stay conscious of their feelings, actions, and emotions—this is not just a note for the expecting mother! Providing emotional support is a huge part of a successful pregnancy, and the only way to do this is by being aware of how your partner is feeling.

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again—you’re in this together, and during one of the most rewarding journeys of both of your lives, communication and cooperation are essential for both a rewarding and unique labor and childbirth experience. Most importantly, just be there for each other!

Start learning and preparing for your baby together by signing up for one of my childbirth education courses. At Moms on Top, I offer private, in-person, and online courses to fit the needs of every mom-to-be (and supportive partner)! Get in touch with me today—I’d love to hear from you!

The post You’re in This Together: Getting Your Partner Involved Pre-Childbirth appeared first on Moms On Top.