What Do I Need To Know About My Pregnant Wife?

June 2, 2018
Paint Texture Border

So the pregnancy test is positive; you’re going to be a dad! Now that the initial shock or excitement (or both) has calmed, you might be wondering what in the world you should know about your pregnant wife.

Obviously we can’t fit everything you need to know about pregnancy into one blog post. But here are 7 things you need to know about your pregnant wife.


1 - She’s hungry. Seriously, the stereotypes exist for a reason. She’s growing an entire human being inside her. That takes a lot of sustenance! She’s hungry. Of course, she may only be really hungry for certain things — pregnancy cravings are actually a thing. If you want to be the hero-husband, give her the food she’s hungry for. Even if that means driving around town in search of the right queso or the best chocolate milkshake or the exact ingredients she wants in her salad.


2 - She’s tired. Growing a person and a placenta is exhausting. Your wife is probably tired in a way she’s never experienced before. If you’re understanding of that exhaustion and do what you can to help her rest, she will be so grateful.


3 - She’s hormonal. The hormones are real. And it takes a lot of them to grow a baby! All that to say, your wife will probably be much more moody than usual. Rest assured – she doesn’t like the mood swings any more than you do. When she feels like she won an Olympic gold medal one minute and like she just missed the final shot in the NBA finals the next, she doesn’t understand it either. Pregnancy hormones are not to be understood; they are to be survived. She probably needs you to be very patient with her as you both endure the hormones.


4 - She’s uncomfortable. Her body is morphing and growing in ways she’s never experienced. Her rib cage and hip bones are expanding and moving to make room for another person inside her. As the baby grows, she feels like her bladder is becoming a tiny trampoline. Getting comfortable in bed becomes more and more challenging (thus all the pillows!). She needs you to be empathetic.


5 - She’s worried you aren’t attracted to her. As we just said, her body is changing and growing. She’s gaining weight (probably in places other than her tummy); she may be growing hair in unusual places; she may have a dark line down her abdomen or stretch marks on her sides; she might have varicose veins in her legs; her ankles might be swollen. There’s a chance she isn’t feeling her most attractive right now. So she needs to know you think she’s beautiful. Tell her. Often.


6 - She’s scared. Oh, there are so many things to be afraid of when you’re expecting a baby! What are pregnant women afraid of? Maybe that she won’t be a good mother or that she won’t know what to do. Maybe she’s scared of labor and how much it will hurt. Maybe that something will go wrong with the baby. Maybe that something will happen to you and she will have to do this all on her own. Maybe she’s afraid about financial pressures. Maybe she’s scared her relationship with you will change. Like we said, there are so many things to fear when you’re having a baby. You’re probably afraid of some of those same things. Maybe you can talk about those things and reassure each other and face those scary things together.


7 - She needs you. You might sometimes feel a little left out or unnecessary because she is the one who gets to carry your child and give birth. But please know – your wife needs you. She probably feels vulnerable and raw and tired and scared, and she needs you to be her partner. Things are always better when we know we aren’t facing life alone. She needs your help making decisions and offering emotional support. She needs your affirmation and reassurance. Even though she’s the one carrying the baby, you are vital!



Although having a baby is a huge deal and can be completely overwhelming, this is such a special time in your lives. Pregnancy and parenting can help you and your wife draw closer together and become even more of a team than you imagined. If you don’t know how your wife is feeling or what she needs from you, ask her! Without a doubt, she’ll appreciate you even more as she sees how much you care.

February 10, 2026
An unexpected pregnancy can already feel like a lot to carry. However, when your partner is strongly pushing you toward abortion, and you’re not sure what you want, it can feel even heavier. You may feel torn between your own emotions and his expectations, trying to keep the peace while feeling anxious or confused. If you’re in this situation, take a deep breath. At Collage, we understand how emotionally complicated this can be. You deserve a safe place to talk through what you’re feeling and be treated with respect. You don’t have to rush into a decision. Schedule a free appointment to learn how we can help you navigate this situation. It’s Your Decision Sometimes a partner’s reaction is rooted in panic. He may be thinking about finances, school, your relationship, or how unprepared he feels. In his mind, abortion may seem like the fastest solution. When someone repeatedly insists on one outcome, refuses to listen, or makes you feel guilty for even considering other options, it can start to feel like your voice doesn’t matter. And in a moment this vulnerable, your voice matters more than ever.  Giving Yourself Space If conversations feel tense or emotionally draining, it’s okay to take a step back. You have the right to say something like, “I need time to think. I’m not ready to decide right now.” Creating a little space can help you reconnect with your own thoughts instead of constantly reacting to his. Sometimes the best thing you can do is pause, breathe, and remind yourself that you don’t have to figure everything out in one day. You Deserve Respect It’s also important to pay attention to warning signs. If your partner threatens to leave, withdraw support, manipulate you emotionally, or isolate you from others unless you choose abortion, that is not love. That is control. You deserve a relationship where your safety and well-being are protected, not threatened. If you ever feel unsafe, reach out for immediate support. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-7233) offers 24/7 confidential resources to help you get the assistance you need. You Deserve a Safe Place to Talk It Through At Collage, we’re here to support you. You don’t have to walk into our center with a decision already made. You can come in simply because you need someone to listen, help you process, and remind you that you are not alone. This is your pregnancy and future. If your partner is pressuring you and you’re feeling unsure, please know that help is available. We offer a calm, caring environment where you can talk openly, ask questions, and explore your options without feeling judged or persuaded to make a specific decision. You are not alone in this. Schedule an appointment with Collage today. We’re here to walk with you, one step at a time. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services .
January 23, 2026
Facing an unplanned pregnancy can bring up difficult questions, especially when it comes to your relationship. You may be wondering whether you are required to tell your partner you’re considering an abortion, or whether it’s okay to keep that information private. Fear of conflict, concern about pressure, or a desire to protect your emotional well-being can all play a role. These feelings are common, and it’s okay to take time to think through what feels safest and healthiest for you. Collage offers a confidential and non-judgmental space where you can discuss these concerns without pressure. Before making any decisions, we provide cost-free pregnancy services , including ultrasounds, to help you understand important details about your pregnancy. Our goal is to give you accurate medical information and the space you need to move forward with clarity. You’re welcome to schedule a private, confidential appointment to learn more when you feel ready. Understanding Your Autonomy In many states, adults are not legally required to tell a partner if they’re considering or planning an abortion. Medical decisions about your body are generally protected by privacy laws, meaning the decision is legally yours. Some exceptions exist, such as parental involvement laws for minors, but partner notification is typically not required for adults. Even when the law is clear, the emotional side of this decision can feel complicated. You may feel torn between maintaining privacy and wanting honesty in your relationship. There is no single “right” approach, only what best supports your well-being and circumstances. When Safety Is a Concern In some relationships, sharing your thoughts with a partner may lead to understanding or emotional support. In others, it may not feel safe. If you’re worried about pressure, manipulation, anger, or physical harm, prioritizing your safety is essential. You’re never obligated to share information that could put you at risk. If you feel unsafe or unsure, confidential help is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-SAFE). Support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Why Medical Information Matters Whether or not you involve your partner, having accurate medical information is an important step. An ultrasound can help confirm gestational age, pregnancy location, and whether the pregnancy is viable. These details matter for your health and can help you feel more grounded as you consider your next steps. You Are Not Alone At Collage, we offer a confidential, respectful environment where your voice and concerns are taken seriously. Our team provides pregnancy confirmation, emotional support, and space to think through your situation without pressure or judgment. You deserve time, clarity, and peace of mind as you decide what is right for your life. Connect with Collage to discuss your questions in a supportive and confidential setting. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services.
December 17, 2025
Holiday gatherings often bring familiar traditions, questions, and expectations. But when you’re carrying the news of an unexpected pregnancy that you haven’t shared, the season may feel different this year. You might be participating in celebrations while quietly navigating thoughts and emotions that others cannot see. If you want clarity about your pregnancy or a private space to consider your next steps, Collage offers free services, including pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and confidential consultations, to support your needs. Schedule your appointment today. Prepare Yourself, Not the Perfect Conversation You may not be ready to share your news, and that’s okay. What can help is preparing yourself: deciding on the topics you’re comfortable discussing, the questions you want to avoid, and the boundaries you want to set. This proactivity allows you to answer without feeling like you need to tell all and not overshare. Create Space Throughout the Gathering Instead of thinking about the whole event at once, break it into smaller, manageable moments. Emotional regulation becomes easier when you give yourself space to reset. Try:  Stepping outside for a few breaths of fresh air Finding a quiet room for a brief pause Taking a short walk after a meal Giving yourself permission to excuse yourself from overwhelming conversations These small steps can help protect your peace. Remember that if at any point during the gathering you’re ready to go home, go ahead. Take care of yourself by calling it a day when necessary. Meet Your Basic Needs Early pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and fatigue can be uncomfortable during gatherings. Come prepared to meet your own needs by bringing pregnancy nausea candy, snacks to settle your stomach, and a water bottle. Store these items in your purse, knowing they’re ready when you need them. You Don’t Have to Navigate This Season Alone If you want clarity before facing holiday conversations, Collage can help you understand your pregnancy and answer questions in a calm, confidential setting, which can make these boundaries easier to hold. Contact us whenever you’re ready to schedule a free appointment. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services .
Show More