Pregnancy Can Change the Way a Woman Feels Inside
It’s common for women to feel differently inside during pregnancy. Those shifts in feeling can be attributed to a variety of factors, both physical and emotional. In cases where a woman’s partner has noticed the change, it’s important to provide support and understanding.
Physical Changes During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, a woman’s body is undergoing a variety of changes. This can have an effect on the way a woman feels internally, from more physical symptoms to a change in overall energy level and stamina. Some of the physical changes in a woman’s body during pregnancy include:
- Weight gain
- Hormonal shifts
- Disturbed sleep patterns
- Digestive changes
- Fatigue
- Aches and pains
Emotional Changes During Pregnancy
As important as physical changes are during pregnancy, emotional changes often accompany them. The reality of the situation, along with potential pressure or worries, can lead to an internal transformation that’s just as meaningful as what’s happening in a woman’s body. Here are some of the emotional changes that can occur during pregnancy:
- Mood Swings – With so much in flux, it’s not uncommon for pregnant women to experience swings in their moods. This is often caused by various hormones that are released during pregnancy, and can make for emotionally charged moments.
- Stress and Anxiety – Pregnant women also often feel stressed and anxious. The signs and symptoms of pregnancy, as well as the life changes that come with having a baby, can all contribute to these feelings.
- Body Image Issues – From gaining weight to developing stretch marks, some women struggle to feel good about the way their body is changing during pregnancy.
- Increased Sensitivity – During pregnancy, many women feel more sensitive than usual. This could stem from the heightened sense of smell many women experience, as well as their feelings about their changing body and the effects of hormones.
How to Help Your Partner
Men can play an important role in helping their partners during pregnancy. Here are some tips for providing support:
- Express your understanding. Acknowledge and validate how your partner is feeling.
- Provide emotional support. Let your partner know you are there to listen, give hugs, and encourage her.
- Assist with physical needs. Things like going to doctor’s appointments, helping with housework, and taking care of other children can help take the load off.
- Offer breaks. Allow your partner to take breaks or find some time to relax and recharge.
- Make healthy lifestyle choices. Encourage healthy eating, exercise, and adequate sleep for both of you.
Whether it’s exhaustion, discomfort, or emotional insecurity, understanding the source of your partner’s feelings can help make this time a little easier. After all, pregnancy is a unique time that can bring up some unexpected changes – both physical and emotional. As your partner is going through this time of transformation, it’s important to show understanding, validation, and support.
Welcome to my fertility blog. This is a space where I will be sharing my experiences as I navigate through the world of fertility treatments, as well as provide information and resources about fertility and pregnancy.
