Prepare for changes in your relationships and plan for supports.
Having a baby will change your relationship with your partner. No longer will there just be the two of you with individual needs and wants. A baby will demand more attention and may cause stress to a relationship.
- Take time to discuss each other’s beliefs and values around raising a child.
- Make a plan for the division of household chores.
- Discuss how each parent can be involved in caring for the baby.
- Work out together how to be financially prepared to decrease additional stressors.
Support system
Bringing a baby into your life can bring joy to you and all those around you. However, this may not always be the case. Discuss your plans to have a baby with your family, friends and supports in your life.
Take time to explore any conflicts that may result due to your decision to get pregnant. Once the baby arrives, these emotional challenges can prove even more difficult.
Identify those around you who could become part of your support network.
- Find someone you look to as a role model.
- Plan ahead for when the baby arrives and how you would like friends and family to be supportive.
- Think beyond those first few days with baby and identify to your support network how they can continue to help you adjust to becoming a parent.
Mental wellness support
Individuals, people or persons who are currently experiencing depression or anxiety, or have in the past, may benefit from speaking with their doctor about their plans to get pregnant.
Supports are available to help individuals, people or persons emotionally while trying to conceive or once they are pregnant. Visit our depression and anxiety page to learn more.
Relationship safety
Violence, abuse, sexual abuse and trauma all impact the emotional and physical health of pregnant persons.
Rates of intimate partner violence, a pattern of physical, sexual or emotional violence, can increase while you are pregnant or after you have the baby. It is not your fault.
- Learn about the signs of domestic violence. It can start quite subtly with comments, criticisms, or threats.
- If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, abuse or sexual abuse in a relationship, help is out there. In an emergency, call 911 for the operator and ask for the police.
- VictimLINK, a province-wide telephone helpline is available in 130 languages, 7 days a week, and can link you to resources in your neighborhood.
- Toll free: 1-800-563-0808
- For deaf and hearing impaired assistance (TTY): 604-875-0885
- Transition houses and safe shelters for individuals, people or persons with or without their babies, may also be available in your area. Visit the BC Society of Transition Houses to learn more.