Health Library

The Health Library is a collection of health and wellness resources created for learning and accessibility. Select a topic below for related health information or search for a topic in the search bar for more information on other medical conditions.

Spanish Translation

Pregnancy: Relationship Changes

Overview

Pregnancy starts a new phase of your relationship with your partner. You can expect a natural shift in roles as well as attention to and expectations of each other.

  • If you are new to parenthood as a couple, you will notice that your focus on each other is evolving into something new—attention to a third party, your future child. After the birth, you will get to know each other in new ways, as parents.
  • If you have one or more children already, you are already familiar with the limited couple time available to parents. In the face of increased parenting demands, also give your adult time together high priority.

For many couples, pregnancy is an exciting time of change. Along with change, though, can come stress and new challenges. Many couples find that pregnancy poses new financial and emotional concerns that they hadn't anticipated. Some couples find it useful to see a counselor before or after the birth, to help achieve a healthy transition from "couple" to "family" or from "family" to "larger family."

Related Information

Credits

Current as of: October 24, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.