Forward this article to your partner!
Most women will agree that, after childbirth, what they need the most is support from their partner. When a mom feels cared for, her anxiety and stress levels go down, and looking after their newborn becomes easier [1, 2].
The problem is that many women don’t tell their partners what they need directly, so we’ve made a list of things we know will make them happy!
Take care of some of the household chores
If you have the time, take on some of her responsibilities. If your job or schedule doesn’t allow that, recruit helpers among your friends and family or hire a cleaning service, at least for the first few weeks.
Get take-out, buy pre-cooked meals, or find your inner chef
Mom probably doesn't have much time to cook right now. She'll be thrilled if you take care of that by having food delivered. You can also purchase or prepare pre-cooked meals and freeze them to enjoy during the week. Working on your cooking skills is also a great idea, just make sure to clean up after!
Offer to do specific chores
You've probably already asked how you can help. But after childbirth, your partner may not have the energy to write you a to-do list. Try to take care of specific things, such as changing the baby’s diapers at night, giving them their daily bath, sterilizing the bottles, doing the laundry, or tidying up the house.
Give her a chance to rest
Taking a nice long bath, going out for coffee, getting her nails done, or just going for a walk by herself are all things you can help your partner do. Taking care of the baby for a couple of hours so mom can have a little time for herself is one of the best things you can do for her.
Show your appreciation
Take note of the things your partner is doing, and praise her efforts and accomplishments as a new mom. Hearing the words “thank you” has been proven to increase levels of the hormone oxytocin [3], which can help improve mood, and cause a surge of tenderness while reducing stress.
