When most people think of the early pregnancy signs & symptoms, it’s the mom-to-be who is usually the focus, and rightly so. But did you know there are things that you, the dad-to-be, will need to be prepared for, too? It’s true. It’s a big change for you, too, and you may experience some symptoms that you didn’t expect.
Anxiety
Sure, you’re excited for your impending arrival, but it’s very normal to be anxious, too. Even if it’s not in your nature to worry about things, the upcoming birth of a child is a whole different ballgame. You may experience symptoms of anxiety such as sleepless nights, which can lead to daytime fatigue and brain fog, as well as symptoms such as digestive upset and heartburn. Take my advice: Don’t complain about this to your pregnant partner. You’ll regret it.
A case of the Jekyll and Hydes
It’s a well-known fact that moms-to-be will experience some pretty wild mood swings, thanks to the party her hormones are having in her body. But you, too, may experience shifts in your mood while your baby is on the way. Although you can’t pin your mood swings on hormones, you can attribute them to nerves. A big lifestyle change is coming your way, and it’s very normal to experience highs and lows associated with that. You may oscillate between feelings of joy, anticipation, fear, inadequacy, stress, and more.
Nausea and Vomiting
Expectant moms don’t have the market cornered on morning sickness. Whereas your partner’s pregnancy hormones can be attributed to her hormonal changes, it’s not uncommon for dads-to-be to experience nausea and vomiting when their partners are expecting, too. Why? If you’re the type to eat your feeling, the stress and anxiety you feel when a baby is on the way could be due to a diet that less than stellar. Cleaning up your diet should help.
Weight Gain
Wait, what? It’s the woman who gains weight during the pregnancy, right? Yes, it’s pretty much a given that your partner will gain weight as her pregnancy progresses. But you just might, too. It’s common for partners of expectant mothers to gain weight, too. Why? For one thing, your partner will be eating (and snacking) more often, and you may start to follow suit, consuming more calories than you typically would. Also to blame can be secretions of the stress hormone cortisol, which can “trick” your brain into think you are hungry when you’re not, which is why many people stress eat. Keep your diet in check and up your activity level during this stressful time. Your waistline will thank you.
Even though you’re not technically the one carrying the child, the impending changes and the stress of expecting a child can still wreak havoc on your mental and physical well-being. Keep the focus on your partner, but don’t forget to take care of yourself, too.
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