Pregnancy is a strange experience for both men and women. You will quickly realize that your partner, who used to be so patient and so sweet, has become a sharp-tongued woman. You will also learn that you have to be extremely careful with what you say and do since anything may set your gal off in a random tirade.
The staff at thefunkystork.com understands your angst and would like to help you avoid some of the landmines associated with pregnant neuroses. Here are a few scenarios that you should know are extra precarious. By reading our sub-article now, you will hopefully be better prepared should you find yourself faced with one of these scenarios.
Untitled Document
Scenario #1:
She Announces That She Is Pregnant
Keep in mind that this will be a shock for your partner, too. Whether the pregnancy was planned or unexpected, the reality of actually being pregnant is a shock. Despite what you may think, not all women are overjoyed and fully comfortable with the idea the of "being with child." Like men, they need some time to psychologically adjust to the idea. They are also concerned with what this means in terms of their careers, their identity, their relationship with you and, as trivial and superficial as it may sound, their body.
So, when your partner announces to you that she is pregnant, the last things she wants to hear about are your fears and anxieties about your impending parenthood. You need to show her that you love and support her, and that you are up for the task (even if you don't whole-heartedly believe it yet). This is not to say that you are not entitled to have concerns. But why not talk out your fears with your buddies at first? Your gal will be very emotional at this point and needs to be assured that you are going to be supportive and involved in the pregnancy. She doesn't need to worry about you and your reservations right now. There will be plenty of opportunities in the coming weeks to discuss these together...now may not be the best time!
Scenario #2:
She Is Always Tired, Cranky and a Little Neurotic
While the degree of fatigue, crankiness and neuroses will vary throughout pregnancy, the first trimester is generally the worst. You need to realize that your partner does not have any control over this. She is flooded with hormones as her body works diligently to nurture and sustain a new life - your baby. Her hormones may make her weepy, irritable, exhausted and nauseous. Try to be patient and understanding. The worst thing you can do is fight back when she's cranky or rationalize with her when she is neurotic. You will only aggravate the situation, which in turn will make her even crankier or more neurotic.
Likewise, don't criticize your gal if she starts to sleep 16 hours a day and still complains about being tired. Whatever you do, don't pressure her or guilt her into maintaining her previous levels of activity. And if she has the added joy of nausea, don't pressure her into attending your office Christmas party or other social soiree. Instead, let her rest and offer to help out more around the house. Try not to forget that her body is working overtime to create life and needs all the energy it can get.