Pregnancy can be a wonderful and exciting time, but it can also be challenging. Pregnant women have a LOT to deal with physically, emotionally, and mentally. From morning sickness to back pain, swollen feet to mood swings, the list of challenges goes on and on. That’s why it’s important for friends, family, and co-workers to offer their support and help in any way they can. But, what are the best ways to help a pregnant woman? Here’s a list of dos and don’ts to keep in mind.
Do: Offer practical help
One of the best ways to lighten the load is by offering practical help. This can range from cooking a meal to doing grocery shopping. Depending on the pregnancy, pregnant women can struggle with everyday tasks and any help you can offer will be greatly appreciated. Bottom line, if you’re not sure what she needs, simply ask.
Don’t: Offer unsolicited advice
While you may think you’re being helpful, offering unsolicited advice can be a real mood killer. Everyone has an opinion on pregnancy and parenting, but not everyone’s advice is wanted or needed. So, unless you’re asked, it’s best to keep your thoughts to yourself. This goes for parenting books or other self-help articles – you might feel like you’re being a help, but chances are there are PLENTY of other people also ‘trying to help’ and it can feel frustrating at best, downright rude at worst!
Do: Listen to her
Pregnancy can be an emotional roller coaster, and many women feel like they’re not being heard or understood. So, one of the best ways to help a pregnant woman is to simply listen to her. Whether she needs to vent about a difficult day at work or share her worries about the future, your support and understanding can make all the difference. And remember, this means LISTEN, not trying to problem-solve…
Don’t: Try to solve her problems
While it’s tempting to try to solve a pregnant woman’s problems, it’s not always the best approach. So many times we just want to be heard, not fixed. So, instead of trying to come up with a solution, just listen and offer your support. One of the best habits you can get into when someone launches into a vent or an offloading of problems is to step back for a moment and ask whether they would like opinions or advice, or simply a friendly ear to listen. This simple approach will save countless arguments and will make for much more productive communication.
Do: Offer to run errands
When offering help for practical tasks, one of the best things you can do to help is to run errands. Pregnancy can be so tiring – mentally AND physically – and running errands can be a real chore. So, offer to run errands for your pregnant friend or family member. Whether she needs groceries, supplies for the baby, or anything else, your help will be greatly appreciated.
Don’t: Ignore her needs
Ignoring anyone’s needs is hurtful and can make them feel like they are not valued or supported. Throw in a cocktail of pregnancy hormones and this is a surefire way to start arguments and resentment. So, whether she’s asking for help with household chores or simply needs a shoulder to cry on, make sure to listen and acknowledge, and really be there for her and what she needs.
Do: Encourage self-care
Self-care is important for everyone, but it’s especially important for pregnant women. So, encourage your friend or family member to take care of herself. This can mean anything from getting a massage to taking a relaxing bath. The more she takes care of herself, the better she’ll feel and the more capable and energised she will feel to handle any issues.yes I didyes I didY
Don’t: Assume she wants help
While many pregnant women may appreciate lots of help and pampering, others may not. So, first and foremost, don’t assume that your help is needed. Remember that everyone is different, and everyone has different needs so really take the time to ask, and listen to the response.
In conclusion, helping a pregnant woman can be simple and easy, but the biggest key is to ask questions and listen to the needs. Whether you’re offering practical help, a non-judgmental ear to listen and support, or encouraging self-care, your help will be so appreciated and will make their pregnancy journey just that little bit easier.
