Pregnancy:
An Emotional Time for Moms and Dads

Pregnancy can be an emotional roller coaster—for the woman as well as her husband. But parents-to-be can take steps to make sure these nine months are a happy wait time for all.

A Time of High Emotions

Hormonal changes are partly to blame for the mood swings that many pregnant women experience. Moodiness also can result from fatigue, morning sickness, and other pregnancy discomforts.

While many women feel great joy at the prospect of motherhood, they also may worry about:

• The health of their unborn baby
• Whether they will be good mothers
• The pain of childbirth
• Not being able to lose pregnancy pounds
• How their relationships will change
• How their jobs will be affected
• Money concerns

A woman’s partner shares many of these anxieties and may have some of his own, such as concerns about being a good father. In fact, some fathers even gain weight and develop pregnancy symptoms.

How to Reduce Anxieties

• Eat well, get enough sleep, and avoid alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco.
• Engage in some exercise, which can improve sleep and relieve stress.
• Learn about basic childcare, such as how to change diapers.

Talk to your doctor about developing a plan for labor and delivery. Plan in advance—with your husband—arrangements for daycare, time off work, and who’s on for what after the baby is born.

Remember to share concerns with your doctor. For support, talk to friends and family members who are parents.

Article provided by Holy Redeemer Health System.