Supporting with pregnancy, birth and beyond

This information is for dads, partners and family members who are supporting someone through pregnancy, birth and beyond. 

If you and your partner are currently planning a pregnancy, following health advice and leading a healthy lifestyle can help improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy. 

Supporting through pregnancy 

There are lots of things you can do to get involved in the pregnancy and support those who are pregnant: 

• Make sure they are eating healthy. 
• Encourage them to take vitamins and supplements during pregnancy. 
• Make sure they speak to their GP if they take regular medicine, this should ideally be before you start trying for a baby or as soon as you find out they are pregnant. 
• Support them as their body goes through changes. Find out more information about common health problems in pregnancy. Always encourage them to speak to their midwife or GP if they are worried about any pregnancy symptoms. 
• You can support them by helping them rest and taking on any physical work. 
• Join local antenatal classes together.

Information for birthing partners 

The most important thing that’s needed from you as a birthing partner is, just be there for your partner as they prepare for the delivery of the baby. You can help them prepare for the birth by:

• Helping them pack their hospital bag with the essential items. Don’t forget to back some essentials things for yourself as well. 
• Being there to reassure them about any fears or worries they have about giving birth.
• Helping them to decide what they want included in their birth plan as this can help them feel more in control.
• Planning your route to the maternity unit.
• Getting the baby car seat ready.
• Preparing for their return home from hospital after the baby is born.

There's no way of knowing what the labour is going to be like or how each of you will cope, but there are many ways a birthing partner can help. Useful tips for birthing partners can be found on the NHS 111 Wales website. 

Mental health and wellbeing

It’s only natural that most new parents will feel some sort of anxiety and mixed feelings during the first few weeks as you adapt to your new roles. However, if this becomes constant and is affecting daily life, then your partner, friend or family member may need some extra support and help.

As a dad, partner or family member, the pregnancy is likely to impact on you too. Whether the pregnancy has been planned for a while, or is unexpected, you’ll probably feel a range of emotions. 

You should never ignore your own feelings, it's always ok to ask for help. Our mental health and wellbeing hub contains useful information and resources to help you access the range of support you may need.

Useful information and resources

• Maternity services - Information on our maternity services across North Wales, including antenatal care, where to give birth and more. 
• Preconception, pregnancy, early years and family - Information and advice about pregnancy through to early years and beyond for families. 
• How family can support a new mum's wellbeing - Useful advice to support a new mum. 
• Supporting your family with breastfeeding - Information on breastfeeding, which will give you confidence to support the new mother in their decision to breastfeed. 
• Maternal mental health hub - Useful information and resources for those experiencing mental health difficulties in pregnancy to access the right support. 
• Dads and partners | NHS 111 Wales - Useful information for dads and partners on supporting with pregnancy and birth. 
• Supporting Your Partner During Pregnancy | Tommy's - Information about what’s happening at each stage of your partner’s pregnancy and how you can support them.

• Talk with me | GOV.WALES - Welsh Government website with helpful resources for helping your child's brain development.