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Easing Tensions
Fathers Play a Major Role in Helping Stressed-out Moms-to-be
By Laura Paul
In addition to marital and financial stress, the woman's changing body image is a major stress factor. "They may find themselves more fatigued and less interested in their work," Erickson says. "That's just a shift where they are moving from being professional into motherhood. That can shake someone's image of themselves."
Erickson advises expectant fathers to take over some of the household duties and give the woman time for prenatal yoga classes and warm baths. Massage her neck with lavender oil, make her chamomile tea and don't underestimate the power of touch and attentiveness. "A household that moves more slowly and rhythmically and has a lot of quiet time is going to produce children who are more relaxed," she says. Centuries ago, it was easy for expectant fathers to understand how to protect their partners from the stress of famine, wild animals or weather storms. Today, the arrows of stress come in less overt forms.
Expectant fathers can get in tune by paying attention to the signs of fatigue and stress, offering to lend a helping hand and being emotionally supportive. When an expectant father recognizes the emotional nature of a pregnancy, it can help put minor squabbles into perspective. Emotional stress can lead to low birth weight and jittery babies, but expectant fathers can easily soothe both the mother and unborn baby for the best outcome.
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