While we don’t really measure happiness in pregnancy (like we do your blood pressure) we do know that happier pregnancies tend to lead to happier outcomes with less postpartum depression and anxiety after baby is born. Sure, we can do things to keep ourselves happy, but what can our PARTER be doing to help us have a happier pregnancy. I have some great ideas!
And this is seeing thousands of couples come through my delivery rooms, talking to millions of you online and also having 3 babies of my own (and a marriage that is headed to it’s 30 year mark). I think these are simple things that they can do that show they care and that can go a long way to make you happier.
Go to Appointments (or chat about them)
Prenatal appointments can be a huge chore. They can also feel useless as you trudge into the office only to find out that “everything is fine” and go on your way (honestly, best-case scenario — but I get that can feel like a waste of time).
Having a buddy come along can make it all a little more tolerable (think: lunch or dinner afterwards?). Plus they can sometimes see the magic of a prenatal appointment that you just can’t.
You’re growing that human inside of you, but they only get to see the after effects and that is on full presentation at those prenatal check ups.
Now, I know not every family can swing schedules where you can both go. So, chatting about them afterwards, about how you felt at it and what you learned — and maybe even some time to vent about what a waste of time they feel like can be a win.
Another one might be going to the glucose test with you. It’s honestly just a miserable affair… a long, boring, often yucky-feeling time. Having a chauffer and buddy at it would feel awfully nice.
Note: Coming to appointments is a great start — but understanding what’s ahead makes an even bigger difference. Preparing together helps both of you feel more confident, less anxious, and ready for what’s coming.
I should also say that my husband maybe came to one or two appointments with me in all the 3 kids. He was a teacher, and we needed to save sick days. It just wasn’t possible, but he was interested, and he did meet my doctor early on at an appointment. That’s why I gave a few ideas, because I know these won’t work for everyone!
Remind You How Amazing You Are
You are literally growing another human being inside of you!
Honestly, when you step back you realize that it is TRULY amazing.
But when you’re the one doing it a lot of times you just see how they’re starting to take over your body as their own. You sometimes need a different perspective that they can give!
I feel like pregnancy can feel lonely — where this job is one you’re basically doing alone. Having them fan-boy’ing over all the work you’re doing can be helpful. They shouldn’t be shy with compliments!
Looking for more ideas for partners? — be sure to check out these posts:
- How to Be a Supportive Husband and Partner During Pregnancy
- What To Do About A Selfish Husband During Pregnancy?
- What to Do If Your Girlfriend is Pregnant
- Dealing with an Unsupportive Husband During Pregnancy: Insensitive partners
- My Boyfriend Says I Feel Different Inside During Pregnancy
Get Prepared With You
Preparing for birth isn’t something you have to figure out alone — and it makes a big difference when you don’t.
This isn’t to say that if your partner isn’t interested in birth prep that they’re not a good one. You may need to let them know that’s what you want. I mean, most often our bodies are our own business but in labor it’s different. You’re bringing this baby home together!
Many couples go into labor feeling unsure of what to expect, which can lead to anxiety, confusion, and second-guessing in the moment. But when you take the time to prepare together, you both start to understand how labor typically unfolds, what your options are, and how to handle the moments that might otherwise catch you off guard.
That shared understanding helps you feel more confident, less overwhelmed, and better able to make informed decisions as things happen.
Being mindful to pick a class that includes them is smart. Many classes leave partners in the dust and only talk to “mamma” — and I just disagree with that fundamentally.
It also changes how you support each other. Most partners want to help, but don’t always know what to do — and that uncertainty can add stress for both of you.
When you’ve learned together ahead of time, you’re on the same page, speaking the same language, and working as a team instead of trying to figure it out in real time. That’s what helps labor feel calmer, more connected, and more manageable.
Real preparation isn’t about knowing everything — it’s about feeling ready, informed, and supported no matter how your birth unfolds.
If you want to feel more prepared, less anxious, and truly confident going into labor, the best thing you can do is learn together. Inside The Online Prenatal Class for Couples, you’ll both understand what to expect, your options, and how to support each other — so you’re not figuring it out in the moment.
Fill Your Water Bottle
This is a little one, but water can make a huge difference in how you feel during pregnancy.
That one habit of filling it every morning can put you on a path to drinking it.
Honestly, if I don’t fill my water cup, I think my intake is about half of what it would be if I did. Which is sad, but true.
Small, simple gestures like this can go a long way. Plus, when they get in a habit like this it can also help your breastfeeding journey. It’s just a simple thing that can truly help.
Looking for more about hydration in pregnancy? — be sure to check out these posts:
- Can Women Drink Gatorade During Pregnancy? Can it prevent dehydration safely?
- Dehydration During Pregnancy: The importance of hydration while growing a human.
- When Should I Start Drinking Raspberry Leaf Tea?
- Drinks for Pregnant Women: What are the best drinks during pregnancy?
- Can You Drink Wine When You’re Pregnant: The studies for pregnant women
Prepare for AFTER Baby is Born
Note: I didn’t say prepare for baby — I’m talking about preparing for postpartum. A good partner will remember that you’re going to need some TLC along with managing a new baby — so they’ll work to prepare a good place to come home to.
Yes, that includes building the crib, but also things like making sure your bathroom is clean, that your pads are easy to grab.
BTW, there’s a few things you’ll want to have on hand — I have a postpartum checklist to help with that:
And, one of my favorites — installing a Bidet (that post is about the Tushy but there’s lots of brands out there anymore — it will give you an idea of how it can help)!
I loved my cold peri bottle after every baby… a bidet would have been SO nice! They’re not very expensive, can be grabbed at your local home improvement store, and are pretty easy to install!
This isn’t to say that they shouldn’t help you in getting all the things you need for baby — I have a no-fluff checklist here:
BUT there’s more to prepare for just baby.
You really will need some TLC when you get home, and it’s easy to think you’re young and you’ll bounce back fast, but often you don’t — so them being aware they’re on “taking care of you” duty too is smart.
Supporting mom after birth is just as important as caring for baby — and knowing what to expect makes all the difference. Inside The Online Prenatal Class for Couples, you’ll both learn how to feel prepared, confident, and ready for those early postpartum days (something, SO many people do — including me before I was The Pregnancy Nurse®).
What did I miss? What is YOUR partner doing to help you have a happier pregnancy? Tell me in the comments!
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