Experienced dad Ben Wakeling from our Parent Panel shares his tips on ways dads-to-be can support their partners during pregnancy.

My wife is expecting our third child in August. You’d think I would be a pro at helping out during pregnancy by now – but nothing could be further from the truth. Quite often I’ll see my wife shuffling across the lounge carpet, backache and pelvic pain meaning that she does what can only be described as a forward moonwalk when moving around to try and ease the pain.

Many dads feel like spare parts during pregnancy. Some particularly soft blokes may even feel a bit guilty that their five minutes of fame (on a good day) verses his partner’s nine months of discomfort seems a bit disproportionate to say the least. Truth is, there are many ways in which a dad can get involved; and here, in no particular order, are five of them.

Rub Her Feet

Pregnancy inevitably involves weight gain, which will take its toll on mum’s feet; and, after a day of walking (or shuffling) around, they can swell to epic proportions. Having her lie down with her feet on your lap whilst you give them a good rub will help relieve any discomfort and earn you a massive number of brownie points. Just don’t complain that her feet smell!

Compliment Her

The weight gain we just mentioned can damage your partner’s self-esteem, especially when it is coupled with morning sickness, backache and swollen limbs. She may often complain that she looks frumpy, or fat, or unattractive; and whilst it’s always been your role to compliment your partner, it’s more important now than ever. Lavishing her with genuine and heartfelt compliments will make her feel fantastic about herself and her pregnancy.

Get Your Marigolds On

Now is the time to throw away your masculinity and start donning your rubber gloves, grabbing your feather duster and reaching for the bleach. Doing more than your fair share of household chores will place you firmly in mum’s good books – and plus, when she does throw up, she’ll be honking into a wonderfully clean toilet. Who wouldn’t like that?

Go to Dinner

This might be your last days of pure freedom, especially if you’re expecting your first child – so why not make the most of it? Take your partner out for a nice meal, safe in the knowledge that – for now – you won’t have to content with a screaming toddler throwing his food at the next table.

Show Interest

Whilst fifty years ago fathers were aloof and distant, nowadays we’re much more involved. Show your partner that you are interested and excited about the prospect of being a dad – read a book, attend appointments, and spend a great deal of time feeling your partner’s baby bump. An involved dad is great for mum and baby.

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