How to Support Your Partner During Pregnancy

After the initial excitement (and maybe a little nervousness) that follows a positive pregnancy test, you might find that your thoughts start moving a mile a minute. Your partner may already have a list of things you need to get started on, or you might start researching how to have a healthy pregnancy together. Regardless, there's a lot that needs to be done, and it can be a bit overwhelming for everyone. Offering support during this time is one of the best ways to prioritize both the physical and emotional well-being of your loved one. From attending doctor’s appointments to providing comfort during moments of uncertainty, your role is to help your partner navigate the ups and downs of pregnancy. Here, we'll provide a bit more information on how partners can help offer support throughout the pregnancy.

14 Ways to Support Your Partner During Pregnancy

The hormonal changes that happen during pregnancy can impact both the physical and mental health of your partner. Some days, they may not feel well, while other days, they may spend napping on the sofa and snacking on pickles and peanut butter. Every pregnancy is different, and even if your partner seems like they have everything together, you're going to want to support them in any way you can. To help, consider the following 14 ways to offer emotional and physical support during pregnancy.

1. Celebrate Together

Pregnancy is a monumental time in both of your lives, and it’s important to savor and celebrate the special moments along the way. Start by celebrating the positive pregnancy test and talking about how you're going to tell your friends and family. As you move on in the pregnancy, find ways to celebrate the journey together. Creating positive memories will make the experience even more memorable.

2. Boost Your Intimacy and Strengthen Bonds

Pregnancy can change how you and your partner connect physically and emotionally, and it’s important to prioritize intimacy in ways that feel comfortable (e.g., a nice prenatal massage). Tiredness is quite common during pregnancy, and you may find that your partner isn't up for some of the things you usually enjoy. If that's the case, don't say negative things to make your partner feel bad about it. Instead, focus on intimacy in all aspects, such as quality time or talking about what's going on. Find more helpful tips for partners and first-time dads here.

3. Buy Her Some Pregnancy Products

Pregnancy is full of physical changes that can bring discomfort, and thoughtful products can make a huge difference. Consider gifting your partner some items that cater to her needs, such as a pregnancy pillow for better sleep or a belly band to support her growing bump. These small gestures show that you’re thinking about her comfort and well-being and can help keep her feeling her best.

4. Get Educated on What Happens in Each Trimester

One of the most supportive things you can do is to learn about the changes your partner will go through throughout the pregnancy. Each trimester presents unique challenges and milestones, and understanding what to expect can help you provide the right support.

• First Trimester — Morning sickness, fatigue, and mood swings.
• Second Trimester — Energy returns, but physical changes like weight gain and back pain may occur.
• Third Trimester — Increased discomfort, difficulty sleeping, and the anticipation of labor.

These are just some basics, but you can learn more about what to ask your doctor about each trimester here.

5. Offer Help During Periods of Morning Sickness

Morning sickness is one of the most common pregnancy symptoms, and it can hit at any time of day. Your partner may struggle with nausea, making even simple tasks feel difficult. During these episodes, offering to help with meals, keep her hydrated, or simply give her space to rest can be incredibly supportive. Taking over responsibilities, even temporarily, ensures that she doesn't feel overwhelmed by the physical toll morning sickness can have.

6. Get Involved in the Pregnancy

Another great way to show support when your partner is pregnant is to offer to attend medical appointments whenever possible. Sharing these experiences with her creates a sense of teamwork and helps both of you feel more connected to the pregnancy process. If your job doesn't allow for every appointment, prioritize the milestone appointments and try to make as many others as possible.

7. Compliment Your Partner During Her Pregnancy

Pregnancy can bring about a range of physical and emotional changes, and your partner may feel self-conscious about some of those changes. A few nice words can go a long way. Make positive compliments that help reaffirm her beauty, strength, and capabilities during this time. Boosting your partner's self-confidence can significantly impact their mood, so it's worth a few words of kindness.

8. Help Your Partner With Chores

Certain tasks can become physically difficult or tiring as pregnancy progresses. Taking on additional household chores can relieve stress and help her feel more supported. Whether it’s grocery shopping, cooking dinner, or tidying up around the house, showing that you’re willing to pitch in makes a big difference.

9. Take Over the Heavy Lifting

Heavy lifting during pregnancy may increase the risk of premature labor and low birth weight, so it's best if you take over that chore. You can encourage your partner to ask for help when needed, but by proactively stepping in, you show her that she doesn't have to handle everything on her own.

10. Make Healthy Lifestyle Changes Together

Pregnancy requires a lot of changes. Healthy eating habits, pregnancy-safe exercises, and a stronger sleep schedule all impact fetal development. Rather than watching your partner make these changes on her own, step in and do them with her. This can help you create healthy habits for the future and show her that you're in it together.

11. Be a Good Listener and Offer Emotional Support

Pregnancy can be an emotional rollercoaster, with hormones fluctuating and new concerns arising daily. One of the best ways to show your partner comfort is to be a good, active listener. Sometimes, your partner just needs to express her feelings and know that she is heard and supported. Give her the space she needs to talk without judgment and be her safe space.

12. Practice Compromising

Pregnancy is a time of change, and there may be moments when your partner’s needs clash with yours. Whether it’s a difference of opinion about baby names or how to handle family visits, practicing patience and compromise will be essential. Approach disagreements with an open mind, listen to your partner’s concerns, and work together to find solutions that make both of you feel heard and respected.

13. Go Shopping Together

If you don't like shopping, it's time to get used to it. Pregnancy means you'll need maternity clothes, supplies to breastfeed, and all of the products and supplies to make the perinatal period comfortable. Offer to go to the store when you both have free time and enjoy the preparation process as a team.

14. Attend Labor and Birthing Classes

Labor and birthing classes are a great way to learn about the birthing process together and ensure you feel confident when the time comes. These classes provide valuable information about what to expect during labor and how to support your partner during delivery. Courses are usually once a week for a few hours and vary in length. Look into a few options near you to find something that works for both of your schedules.

Where to Find Extra Support After Labor and Delivery

Becoming a new parent is a big transition, and feeling overwhelmed or a little out of your element is normal. While you and your partner should be each other's biggest advocates during this time, it's okay if you need a little more help or support. There are several different services available for new parents that can help you learn how to give your partner support with a new baby around, how to bond with your baby, or even how to improve sleeping problems. Even joining a support group with other new parents can make a big difference, so don't hesitate to try some options and find what works best for you.

You can always talk to your doctor for recommendations, but some other areas to consider include:

• Local community groups
• Online groups (Facebook Groups, Peanut App, BabyCenter)
• Postpartum Support International (PSI)
• National Parent Helpline
• Parenting websites and blogs
• Postpartum support services from a doula
• Podcasts (e.g., The Longest Shortest Time)

You can also always talk to your family and friends. Becoming a parent doesn't mean you need to find time to handle everything by yourself. Remember, it takes a village—all you need to do is ask for help. To help make the postpartum period easier, order an insurance-covered breast pump from Byram Healthcare today. Browse our breast pump selection guide and start the ordering process today.