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Pregnancy brings about a lot of changes. When a couple is trying to conceive, they take extra care about what they consume. They probably eat better, sleep better, and exercise regularly to boost their mind and body. When a woman is pregnant, she has to be mindful of what she eats. She cannot have alcohol or too much unhealthy food because she has a human growing inside her. She also has to remember to take her supplements, visit her doctor regularly, and maintain a stress-free life. Doing all this is not easy, but it helps to have a support system. Be it a mother, sister, or relative, the support and guidance a woman gets when pregnant helps her a lot. But there is nothing better than the support she gets from her husband. While the bulk of the pregnancy work falls on the woman, there are many things dads-to-be can do too. So we are here to tell husbands how they can help their wives during pregnancy to ensure a safe and healthy term. Here are a few ways you can lend a helping hand and ease things for your pregnant wife:
1. Schedule Doctor’s Appointments
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Women already have so much on their plate. They have to deal with morning sickness, sleepless nights, nausea, and excessive hormones. It would help a great deal if husbands can pitch in. You can help schedule doctor’s appointments and accompany your wife. Wives love to have their husbands by their side during regular check-ups. Besides, it makes you a more involved parent. It’s a bonus if you read up and have a bunch of questions to ask the OB-GYN too.
2. Keep An Eye On The Wife’s Nutrition
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Many times women feel nauseous or repulsed by certain foods during their pregnancy. Because of this, they tend to avoid eating certain foods that provide the necessary nutrients they need. Husbands can ensure that their wives are eating healthy and getting the nutrients they need. Plus, if your husband can cook for you, nothing like it.
3. Count The Kicks Together
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Once your baby starts kicking, it is common to count the number of kicks to ensure that the baby is safe and unhealthy. You and your husband can do this together. It is also a great bonding activity. Set aside some time every night before hitting the sack. Rub her belly and count the kicks together before you fall asleep.
4. Massage Your Wife’s Legs
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Pregnant women often experience swollen ankles. A good soothing massage at that time is just what she needs. Sit your wife down and massage her legs and ankles to ease her pain. She is going to appreciate the massage and be thankful for a caring husband like you. She’s carrying a human being in her, so this is the least you can do!
5. Contribute Whenever You Can
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Whether it is cleaning the house, doing the dishes, or cooking some delicious food, lending a helping hand in every small way possible provides your wife with a great deal of support. Besides, it is not good for her to overexert herself during pregnancy. Seeing you take up responsibility will make her happy, and she will also get a lot of rest which she needs during her pregnancy.
6. Keep Yourself Informed
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It is not just your wife’s duty to know about the pregnancy. As the months go by, you should be informed about the changes occurring with the baby and your wife’s body as much as possible. Therefore, read and gather information about what you need to know to be of the most help.
7. Actively Be A Part Of Nesting
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Towards the later stages of pregnancy, women prepare themselves for the arrival of the baby. Right from fixing the nursery to baby proofing areas of the house, it is an important process. As a dad-to-be, you can actively take part in the process. Your wife will be more than happy to see you adapting to the change and will even feel emotionally fulfilled.
Most people believe that the changes that occur during pregnancy do not pertain to men and their lives. But the dads have an equal role to play. Supporting your wife through the months of pregnancy and being prepared to take care of the baby makes you an involved parent and a great father. So all you men who are waiting to become fathers, don’t hold back and jump in to become a dad!
