A Guy’s Perspective on Supporting Your Partner

Your life will never be the same again; you are a father. Get ready for the most challenging, rewarding days of your life. Call the Helpline toll-free at 1-866-942-6466 to get answers to your questions. The following points will help you get started.

• Just LISTEN, she needs to talk.
• Be patient – she’s uncomfortable, and tired.
• Be understanding, this is just as new to her as it is to you.
• Make sure she gets what she needs–sleep, good food, foot rubs, back massages.
• Take on additional responsibilities.
• Take an active role.
• Let her know your thoughts, ideas, & opinions.
• Let her know you are there for her and you are just as much apart of this pregnancy as she is, even though she is carrying the pregnancy.
• Make it clear that you are in this together.
• Go with her to talk to her parents.
• Drive her to appointments, sonograms, pregnancy centers and prenatal care.
• Protect her.
• Communication, Communication, Communication.
• Affirm her for her courage.
• Acknowledge her feelings and fears.
• Empathize–try to understand her feelings.
• Be sensitive to her physical/emotional condition.
• Be a gentlemen, if you don’t know how, read a book, or ask a man who has been married a long time.
• Read pregnancy books along with your partner to learn and prepare as much as you can for the months and years ahead.
• Plan Ahead: Start preparing for financial needs.

Last updated: 02/2008