How you can help during the pregancy

For the first few months your partner may be more tired than usual, and throughout the pregnancy your help will be precious.

How you can help

What to do	How it can help you
Talk to your partner	The best way to understand how your partner is feeling and what’s going on in her body is to talk to her. Ask her what it feels like when your baby moves; go over your plans for the birth together; find out if she’s got particular discomforts. It’ll also help her to share her experiences with you.
Go to antenatal classes	If you go to antenatal classes (especially father-only sessions) you’ll have a chance to learn about what will happen at the birth and talk through your own worries. This will help you to work out the best way to support your partner and to be more involved in making decisions about the birth.
Talk to other fathers	Get to know the other expectant fathers at antenatal classes – they’ll probably be feeling much the same as you and be glad to have someone to talk to. Talk to friends and colleagues who have babies; find out what their experience was like and ask their advice.
Read about pregnancy	Read pregnancy and parenting books and any leaflets you’re given. The more you understand about what’s going on during the pregnancy, the more familiar it will become and you’ll appreciate more how your partner is feeling. You’ll also be able to give your partner support if she’s worried or anxious about anything.
Ask questions	Go to antenatal appointments with your partner so that you can meet the professionals and be present at the examinations. If you’re a first-time parent, there’ll be things you don’t understand and need to know more about. If you ask questions of professionals they’re more likely to involve you.