If you've ever been pregnant, you know the incredible joy and the intense pain it brings. You know what it feels like to have crazy cravings in the middle of the night, and you know how it feels to lose sleep because you're so uncomfortable.
While all the pain and suffering is so worth it when you bring your sweet baby into the world, pregnancy isn't easy. And husbands who pretend to understand or say certain things don't make it any easier. We know you mean well, but husbands, NEVER say these eight things to your pregnant wife:
1. "I know how you feel"
You might think this is a comforting statement, but you don't know how she feels. You don't know the emotional and physical pain she's feeling, so don't pretend like you do. Instead, say "I'm sorry you feel that way" or ask "Can I do anything for you?"
2. "Didn't you eat an hour ago?"
Yes, she probably did eat an hour ago. But now she's hungry again. And if she doesn't get food in the near future, she's probably going to have a meltdown. Don't question your wife's food choices or frequency - she's growing a human after all.
3. "Why are you crying again?"
Hormones are all over the place during pregnancy, and it's completely normal for your wife to get emotional. Chances are she doesn't love crying all the time, so when she does, just hold her and let her know you're there for her. Don't invalidate her feelings.
4. "Calm down"
This goes right along with asking why she's crying. Pregnancy is so stressful, from making sure the baby's healthy to getting the nursery ready. If your sweetheart is having a freak-out moment, ask how you can help make it better.
5. "I slept amazing last night"
When your wife is far along in her pregnancy, she's uncomfortable and sleeping is almost impossible. Even if you had the best night's sleep of your life, she doesn't want to hear about it.
6. "I think all our kids should be a year apart"
Your wife can't wait to get this sweet baby out of her, and she doesn't want to think about going through pregnancy all over again. Let her have the baby, get her body back and enjoy the newborn before you suggest having more kids.
7. "How long do you think it'll take you to lose the baby weight?"
Your sweet wife is already feeling self-conscious about her body going through so many changes, and she doesn't want to think about all the baby weight she's going to have to lose. Just be patient - she'll lose it on her own time.
8. "I invited my parents into the delivery room"
You should never under any circumstances, EVER invite anyone into the delivery room without your wife's enthusiastic consent. She understands that this baby is just as much yours as it is hers, but giving birth is an intimate, vulnerable experience. Unless she's very excited about inviting your parents in, just assume she doesn't want an audience.
Pregnancy is a fragile time in your wife's life. Just make sure you're being sensitive to her feelings, making sure her needs are met and going above and beyond to make sure she's happy. She'll be so grateful for your efforts and support.