Pregnancy - 1st Trimester

Has it sunk in yet?

Discovering you're going to be a father can bring on all kinds of emotions. From sheer excitement about your new role to nerves of anticipation about the new path that lies ahead. If you're feeling a little overwhelmed, don't worry – you're not alone and there is plenty of help out there as you adjust to the life changing journey ahead.

"My first thought was we're not just talking about having a baby any more!" says father-to-be Phil. "We had been trying for a baby for a few months, but the positive pregnancy test was a real watershed."

What to expect during pregnancy

Over the coming months your partner is going to encounter some huge physical changes. She may feel nauseous in early pregnancy due to changing oestrogen, then completely exhausted in the later months as the physical strain takes its toll. As the time goes by, she may have difficulty sleeping and suffer a range of irritating discomforts. You may feel helpless at times, but there's actually plenty you can do to help.

Pregnancy is a seriously draining rollercoaster. And while she may not look any different in the first few months, her fluctuating hormones may be playing havoc with her emotions, and you'll probably bear the brunt of some major mood swings. Sometimes, she may seem like the happiest, most contented woman in the world; at other times, everything you do will get on her nerves.

Don't seek an explanation or feel hurt. Instead, support her by listening and by doing practical things to help. For instance, if preparing food makes her feel sick, take your turn in the kitchen. You don't need to be a cordon bleu chef – just making the effort will show her how much you care.

Don't forget to reassure her about her appearance. Some women really do bloom in pregnancy; others just feel bloated and frustrated at what's happening to their body. The main thing is to keep the lines of communication open. Spend this special time together sharing your feelings and enjoying each other's company before your baby arrives.

Don't be afraid to get involved!

There's no need to stand on the sidelines during pregnancy. It's your baby, too, and you can take an active part right from the start.

If you're able to wriggle out of work commitments, try and go to antenatal appointments together especially when she has an ultrasound scan. This is a painless procedure that allows you to see your baby moving around inside the womb on a monitor.

Parentcraft classes are also a great way to get involved, while preparing you for what's to come. Gone are the days when they were just for women - virtually all are now open to partners too. As well as giving you a clearer idea of what to expect during labour and birth, they cover all kinds of subjects such as nappy changing, bathing your baby and other essential practicalities.

The bottom line is ask. If there's something you desperately want to know, there's always a way of finding out.

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