Cathy Ranson, Editor of ChannelMum.com says: “No matter how strong your relationship, a new baby will challenge your love and shake your bonds like nothing else!
Parenting on Female First
“Though the act of creating a new life will bring you closer together, the day-to-day demands of looking after a little one can test even the most loving partnership.
“How you behave in supporting your partner as they give birth and in the days immediately post-partum will do so much to shape your future relationship – so do all you can to make things work well for your partner, for you and for the new arrival.”
1) Don’t have any expectations – The days before a birth can be very hard for a mum-to-be. She may be physically uncomfortable, nervous, excited, frightened or just plain fed-up with being pregnant. It’s vital she gets as much rest and emotional support as possible, so let her call all the shots
2) Expect the best but prepare for the worst – You never know how a birth is going to go. It could be quick and simple, or it could end in life-saving surgery. Make sure you have all you need ready at home and in your hospital bag.
3) Stay positive – And keep your partner’s confidence levels up. Becoming a parent is wonderful but overwhelming and many new mums find their emotions are all over the place. Let her cry, laugh or just get it all out. You may feel you need to do the same so go for it!
4) Batch cook – Don’t spend ages cooking meals nor a fortune on Deliveroo. Before thebirth, batch cook and freeze as many healthy meals as you can fit into the fridge, so you have near-instant nutrition on hand. Online grocery deliveries are the new parent’s friend too
5) Don those gloves to scrub and clean – Take over all the cleaning and laundry, even for a week or two. Birth is gruelling so your partner may not feel like moving too much and feeding a baby means you’re immobile for hours on end too. And let standards slip a little, no one cares if the house isn’t Mrs Hinch tidy.
6) Be the gatekeeper – Wellwishers are lovely but sometimes it’s better just to have time at home together. Many cultures let mums and babies ‘lie-in’ for 40 days and ban visitors to give mum and baby time tor recover. You may not want to go quite that far but only let in the visitors your partner really wants to see for the first few days and weeks. Everyone else can wait.
7) Sleep and bond – Let your partner sleep as much as they can to regain their strength and use that time to bond with your baby. You are learning to be a parent too so ensure you have plenty of love and cuddles with the new arrival. It may feel like you’re doing nothing, but you’re doing the most important job of all.
Tagged in Parenting Tips