Having a Baby-What you Need to Know
Having a baby gives a thrilling and overwhelming feeling to a couple. It is not a surprise that their happiness would be mixed with other emotions such as angst and second thoughts. But, those feelings are just normal.
As new parents, you will find that all of your time and energy will be used in caring for your baby. Lack of sleep and other emotional changes will cause a strain on your relationship. Both you and your mate need to make adjustments to care for your baby and to preserve your marriage. How can you deal with these challenges?
Handling the Effects of Having a Baby
As a new mother, your focus is to care for your baby. However, your husband may feel neglected. Thus, do not forget that he also needs your attention. Have a chat with him. With patience and kindness, you can help him to feel needed and be involved in caring for your child.
When your husband offers to help in caring the child, accept his help. If he does not do the task perfectly, do not criticize him. Teach him how to do it better instead.
On the other hand, your husband should understand that your child needs your attention most of the time. Aside from being a wife, you also have new responsibilities. You would feel exhausted and stressed which may lead to slight depression.
Let your husband understand that you get easily upset and angry because of lack of sleep. Always try to remain calm though, as the Proverbs say, ” the one slow to anger is better than a mighty man.”
As a husband, show discernment and give her the support that she needs. Help your wife in caring your baby, even at night. In order to do this, limit the amount of time you spend with other activities so that you can spend more time with your family.
Strengthen your Relationship
Even though you have a new member of the family, always remember to take care of your marriage too. Thus, make time for each other. Plan and schedule your activities well.
Go on a date with your mate once in a while. Do little things that make your mate feel loved. It could be by writing a simple note or giving small gifts. When in the bedroom, before succumbing to sleep, have a chat. This is the best time to ask your mate, “How are you today?” “Did your day went well?” With these little chats, you will both make each other feel important.
In everything you do, keep your mate in mind. Consider his/her feelings and commend each other for every little thing you do. When it comes to sexual activities, be considerate and unselfish. Listen and discuss things honestly with your partner. Your patience and understanding will strengthen your relationship.
While the baby grows, your marriage will also grow. In time, you and your mate will become comfortable and confident as parents. Raising a child together can make you a more loving, patient and kind person.
If you work together and support each other, having a baby will make your relationship stronger. The words of Psalm 127:3 will come true to you, “The fruit of the womb is a reward.”