After having a daughter, now more than ever I am cognizant of emphasizing there is no difference between the sexes. But, pregnancy is one time when the role of man and woman is SO different. The man’s job is over pretty quickly and then you are stuck growing a human for 9 more months. Although their literal contribution is over, I wanted Blake to be very involved with OUR pregnancy. He kept asking, “what do you want me to do?” “how can I be involved?” “are you ok?” and I really didn’t have answers. So, looking back on those 9 months, here is the Pregnancy 101 I wish I had had for Blake.

First Trimester

If you are hiding a pregnancy, your significant other can really help in that department. For the first three months, I was eating for two and Blake was drinking for two. He would sneakily sip on my drink or trade with me halfway through. Blake had a lot of fun those first three months.

Without having to ask, Blake went to every single doctor appointment with me from the first appointment until I delivered. The first trimester, doctor’s appointments are really nerve wrecking. I couldn’t imagine sitting in a waiting room alone, waiting anxiously to hear that little heartbeat and know everything was ok. Bring someone with you, ladies, significant other, family, or friend. We were able to schedule every doctor appointment around both my and Blake’s work schedule. Blake’s terrible sense of humor really came in handy those days ;).

Second Trimester

Get them involved. Buy some pregnancy books for men and download pregnancy apps for men. I talked about being pregnant all day, every day. So it was nice when he knew what I was talking about.

Start a workout routine together. The 9 months I was pregnant were our healthiest ever. Blake ate what I ate and worked out with me. On those days I didn’t want to get off the couch, Blake was a perfect motivator. It’s so much better to workout with a buddy.

Register together. Most men probably won’t spent hours online researching which baby products are best for you. But, I would narrow it down to 2 or 3 options and let Blake decide. He is so proud of our stroller selection. I can’t tell you how many times I have heard him recommend it to soon-to-be fathers. “Worth every penny,” he says :).

Third Trimester

At this point, trips to the bathroom are at an all time high. Blake never once rolled his eyes or acted impatiently, although I am sure he wanted to. He even ASKED if I needed to go to the bathroom. Those kind gestures were everything.

Walk walk walk. The last month, we walked everywhere. My body was achy and walking made everything better. Men, plan date nights that involve walking.

Blake hates feet, I mean, really hates feet. But he rubbed my tired feet. That’s love.

Labor & Delivery

Prepare them for what’s to come…all the gory details.

Ask them to make a labor and delivery playlist. Our 15 minutes of pushing is thanks entirely to JT, Can’t Stop This Feeling.

Let them sleep in those early hours of labor. You will need their energy later.

Pack snacks in your hospital bag. There is nothing worse than a hangry man.

More on this later, but make sure whoever is going to be with you during your labor and delivery is wearing comfortable shoes. Moments after delivering little Blake, big Blake told me his feet were killing him. I promptly stabbed him with my dagger eyes.