Most articles about preparing for the arrival of a baby focus solely on the mom and what she needs to do. And, to a degree, it makes sense. She is the one carrying and birthing the child, after all. But what about the other half of the equation? Though they aren't the ones physically carrying the child, it's definitely not time to kick back and relax until the baby arrives. There are plenty of ways dads can (and should) help during pregnancy.
Believe it or not, dads, your help is actually essential to the well-being and ease of your partner's pregnancy, labor, and recovery. Many women don't have the support of a partner, so don't take your job lightly. Though these tasks might pale in comparison to everything your partner has to face, it doesn't lessen the role that your support and even doing simple tasks like picking up around the house can mean to her.
Throughout my two pregnancies, my husband was more crucial than he realized. And without his support during labor, I'm not sure I could have done it. From relieving stress, to lending a listening ear, to attending child birth classes together, your role is vital in the health and happiness of the pregnancy too. Here are just a few ways a dad can make pregnancy easier for his partner.