Dad’s survival guide: trimester 2 - Pregnancy

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Dad’s survival guide: trimester 2

Congratulations! You’ve either made it to trimester 2 or you’re on the ball and getting prepared for it already, which is great. The second trimester is a whole other story from trimester 1. Your partner will probably have a bit more energy, more libido and a larger appetite. However, we hate to break it to you, her hormones are still going wild and her mood swings are only going to get worse throughout this trimester. Sorry!

So here’s another survival guide to help you through the second trimester. Remember, think of it as a check-list and go through it step-by-step. Don’t try to do it all at once, you’ll get overwhelmed.

  • Decide if you want to know your baby’s sex.This should be a mutual decision between you and your partner. Don’t forget to consider all of the pros and cons of knowing so you can make a decision you’re both happy with.

    baby girl

    What am I supposed to do with an Xbox?

  • Go shopping. This is another team activity, because let’s be honest you can’t be trusted in a mall on your own, you’d probably come back with an Xbox instead of a crib. You know we’re right. Don’t try to get everything in one day, make a couple of trips. She won’t be able to handle long stints and even you will end up a bit snappy after a whole day of shopping.
  • Talk about childcare. There’s a lot you and your partner need to decide this trimester and childcare is no exception. Make decisions about the following: babysitters, a day nursery and how you will schedule your maternity/paternity leave. Remember to consider what you want and what you can afford. It may be time to pull out that financial plan you made in trimester 1, don’t be afraid to make adjustments to it.

    pregnant woman showing she's having a boy

    Do you want to know the sex of your baby?

  • Make a birth plan. This is another set of important decisions you and your partner need to make. What kind of birth do you want? What will she feel comfortable with? What will your role be? What will happen in an emergency? Don’t worry, it’s not as daunting as it seems.
  • Sign up for birthing classes. These are great for you both to prepare for D-day and also an opportunity to bond with each other and other parents-to-be. You can use what you learn here to help you make your birth plan. It’s also worth checking out a dad-centred pregnancy class if you’re feeling overwhelmed by your impending role.
  • Consider baby names. You don’t need to make a decision now, but it’s a good idea to start weighing your options. Make sure you both like the name you choose, because you’ll be using it for many years to come. This is one time during the pregnancy we think it’ll be worth it to put your foot down if you don’t like your partner’s choice, but be prepared for an argument. get some ideas here.

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Back to Trimester 1

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