IN HONOR OF MATERNAL MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH THIS MAY, WE WILL BE FEATURING GUEST BLOGGERS, EACH OF WHOM BRING THEIR OWN UNIQUE EXPERTISE AND PERSPECTIVE TO THE DISCUSSION. IT IS MY HOPE TO HELP EDUCATE AND NORMALIZE THE EXPERIENCES OF ALL MOMS.

Guest Blog Post: Dads Who Survive Pregnancy Do These 5 Things!

BY SHAMYRA HOWARD, LCSW-Therapist

Pregnancy can cause a lot of feelings for the expectant mom, but it can be equally stressful for the dad-to-be. If you’re an expectant dad who’s wondering how you’ll make it through pregnancy, do these 5 things to survive!

1. Become informed on what to expect.

Knowing is half the battle. Trying to understand what to expect at all levels of pregnancy can help with an expectant dad’s anxiety and stress, and it can score you points with the expectant mom! If she’s reading a book, read it with her, or google some credible sources.

2. Show genuine interest.

When your pregnant partner has an idea or suggestion regarding the pregnancy, show concern by asking questions, and offering suggestions. Your input matters!

3. Involve yourself in the process.

Your pregnant partner is carrying all of the weight, feeling the feels, and making decisions. Help her to deal with the feels by showing her that she is not doing this alone. Have an opinion, help her become more comfortable, feed her, and most importantly understand that you are a big contributor to this process.

4. Take care of yourself.

A lot of attention is placed on the woman being pregnant for obvious reasons. However, dads-to-be can experience feelings of loneliness, jealousy, isolation, and anxiety. It’s important to acknowledge your feelings and discuss them with a therapist or someone you trust.

5. Enjoy the process.

Breathe and enjoy the fruit of your labor! Pregnancy is unpredictable. Continue to date your partner, and spend as much time together as possible.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and owner of Conquest Counseling in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. I specialize in Sex and Relationship Therapy with Individuals, and Couples, including those who identify as LGBTQ+.

Check out Shamyra's work at www.conquestcounseling.com 

Find Shamyra on Social Media:

Facebook: Sexologist Shamyra, where she posts "sex-edutainment!"

Email: Shamyra@conquestcounseling.com

Phone: (225)-366-7472

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