Emotions
Men might hear stories from friends or in movies about emotional changes in a pregnant woman, but actually helping with emotional change is something you can prepare for, if you know what to look for. You may think you can predict how your partner will respond to certain situations, but pregnancy can really alter that.
Pregnancy is a time of major physical and emotional changes for a mother-to-be. Changes in hormones and dips in blood sugar levels can cause a woman to have mood swings, heightened emotions, fear, depression and/or anxiety. These hormones change the most around weeks 6-10 of pregnancy – and you may notice moodiness flaring up around this time. Hormonal changes can be difficult to understand – imagine feeling extremely depressed and deliriously happy the next moment – all the time while the physical symptoms of pregnancy are also present. These can lead to a stressed-out mother-to-be.
While hormonal changes may be confusing and unpredictable, remind your partner that emotional changes are normal right now. Remember, you may experience hormonal changes as an expectant father as well! Other ways to show support include:
- Helping out with chores around the house that your partner may normally do, but seem stressful at the moment. Maybe it's folding laundry or doing dishes, but helping slash her "to-do" list will ease her stress.
- Communicate with your partner. Express your feelings. Hormonal swings, along with a changing body, may make her feel unattractive. Reassure her that you understand her feelings and are not taking mood swings personally.
- Help ensure your partner is getting enough sleep and eating well. Sleep is an important factor in managing stress and healthy snacking will help alleviate the ups and downs of blood sugar throughout the day.
- Responding with the same level of emotional intensity during mood swings may make the situation worse. Bite your tongue and remember they will soon pass.
If your partner is experiencing prolonged mood swings, depression, or anxiety, communicate with her that it would be best to tell her doctor.