More Than Nursery Prep: Why Your Relationship Needs Attention Too
Pregnancy is often portrayed as a joyful and magical time—and it can be.
But it’s also a period of immense transition, physically, emotionally, and relationally.
As expecting parents prepare for the arrival of a new baby, it’s easy for relationship maintenance to slip to the bottom of the priority list. However, investing in your connection as a couple during this time is not only beneficial for your well-being but also lays a strong foundation for your growing family.
As a couples therapist and parent myself, one of my greatest joys is helping couples navigate this new transition from pregnancy to postpartum.
When we can normalize the changes, manage expectations, and increase the compassion factor, we’re much more likely to weather the changes graciously. Because let’s be honest—it’s not easy.
Why This Stage Matters
Pregnancy introduces a complex mix of excitement, fear, and uncertainty. Hormonal changes, sleep disruptions, financial concerns, and shifting roles can put strain on even the most solid partnerships.
Many couples find that their communication habits and emotional connection are tested in new ways. By being proactive, partners can grow closer instead of drifting apart.
It takes intention and effort, though. More than ever, we can’t take our relationship for granted and just expect that it will be sturdy enough to handle the *biggest* change ever.
When we can expect that it will be a bumpy ride, rather than shame ourselves or scare ourselves when our relationships experience a new drop in satisfaction, we’re so much better prepared.
Like getting the nursery ready, this is a gift that we can give our relationship, too.
Tips for Strengthening Your Relationship
1. Prioritize Emotional Check-Ins
Set aside time to talk openly about how you're each feeling—about the pregnancy, parenting, and your relationship. Simple questions like “What’s been on your mind lately?” or “Is there anything you need from me this week?” can open the door to meaningful connection.
2. Acknowledge Changing Roles
Expecting a baby often brings renegotiation of household responsibilities, career plans, and identity. Open conversations about what each partner envisions or fears can prevent resentment and promote teamwork.
3. Protect Couple Time
While preparing for baby is important, so is continuing to enjoy each other’s company. Date nights, shared hobbies, or even 20 minutes of uninterrupted conversation each day can reinforce your bond.
4. Practice Empathy
Both partners are going through changes, though in different ways. Validating each other's experiences—even when you don’t fully understand them—builds trust and emotional safety.
5. Incorporate the MGI, the Most Generous Interpretation: This comes from Dr. Becky Kennedy’s work and it’s one of my favorite interventions to use in couples therapy. Rather than assuming the worst with your partner when they frustrate you, what is the most generous interpretation, or MGI, that you come up with? This often helps us expand the compassion and not jump to conclusions about a comment or behavior.
How Couples Therapy Can Help
Couples therapy during pregnancy and postpartum can be a valuable tool for navigating the complexities of this life stage. Therapy provides a neutral space to explore sensitive topics—like fear of change, sexual intimacy, or differing parenting styles—before they become sources of tension.
Postpartum, therapy can be especially crucial as couples adjust to the intense demands of new parenthood. Sleep deprivation, identity shifts, and physical recovery can exacerbate emotional distance. Therapy can help couples stay connected, support one another, and recognize signs of postpartum mood disorders early.
More than anything, it’s a sacred time together just for the two of you (or with your kiddo present as well!) Like coming back to the yoga mat during a busy week, it’s restorative to have an intentional and set aside time just for your relationship.
You deserve that.
Final Thoughts
Bringing a baby into the world is one of the most significant transitions a couple can experience. While challenges are inevitable, they don’t have to weaken your bond.
In fact, this season of change can be an opportunity for deeper understanding, emotional growth, and renewed commitment. Prioritizing your relationship now not only benefits your well-being as a couple, but also models healthy communication and connection for your child in the years to come.
Couples therapy offers a safe and supportive environment to strengthen your foundation—whether you're preparing for parenthood or adjusting to life postpartum.
By investing in your relationship during this critical time, you’re not just preparing to be great parents—you’re building a strong, loving partnership that can weather any storm, together.
If you’re curious about what couples therapy might look like in your partnership, reach out at Heartship to schedule a free 20-minute consult.
It would be my happy to support you through this season.
