Essential Guide for Dads-to-Be: Key Insights for Weeks 12-15

As your partner enters week 12 of pregnancy, she’ll likely start feeling some relief from the early pregnancy symptoms. However, this doesn’t mean you can let your guard down. Maintaining healthy habits and paying attention to her well-being are key to ensuring a smooth pregnancy.

There’s a lot to learn during these months, and pregnancy is not just your partner’s responsibility. While she’s carrying the baby, you play a crucial role too. Understanding what’s happening during this stage and offering care and support will make a big difference. By working together, you can help your baby grow strong and healthy.

In this Essential Guide for Dads-to-Be, we’ll cover some key points you should be aware of. Let’s dive in!

Key Prenatal Checkup: First Trimester Screening

At week 12, it’s time for your partner’s first full prenatal checkup. This is a big milestone, and it’s a great idea to accompany her to the appointment. Not only will you get a better understanding of your partner’s and baby’s health, but you’ll also get to hear your baby’s heartbeat for the very first time—an unforgettable experience.

This checkup includes several important tests, such as blood tests, urine tests, and assessments of liver and kidney function. Your presence will help put her at ease during what can be a nerve-wracking time.

Pro Tip: Bring some snacks along for your partner to enjoy after any fasting-related tests. This will help prevent dizziness or low blood sugar after the tests are completed.

Common Pregnancy Symptoms

Dizziness
Some women may experience dizziness around this time, especially when changing positions quickly—like standing up too fast from bed or a chair. This can be caused by the growing uterus putting pressure on major blood vessels, slowing the return of blood to the heart.

If this happens, help her lie down and rest for a few minutes. This usually alleviates the dizziness.

Bleeding Gums
Pregnancy increases the risk of gum problems. Some women may notice swollen gums that bleed easily, even during light brushing or flossing.

You can help by suggesting she switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush or soaking her toothbrush in warm water to make it softer. Even if her gums bleed, it’s important that she continues to brush to prevent infections, which can worsen the bleeding.

Important Health Considerations

Nutrient Intake
As the second trimester progresses, your partner’s need for certain nutrients, such as calcium, iron, and DHA, increases as the baby grows.

• Calcium helps build the baby’s bones and teeth and can prevent leg cramps in your partner. Encourage her to take 600mg of calcium daily through supplements or food sources like milk, eggs, tofu, and fish. Also, getting some sunlight helps her body produce Vitamin D, which aids calcium absorption.

• Iron is essential for increasing blood volume and supporting the baby’s development. It’s also vital for preventing anemia. You can help by preparing iron-rich meals, such as 50-75g of lean red meat per day or serving organ meats like liver 1-2 times a week.

• DHA supports brain development in the baby, and your partner needs at least 200mg daily. Together, you can choose fish like salmon or mackerel, which are rich in DHA, and aim for 2-3 servings of fish per week, along with an egg a day.

Weight Management

Managing weight during pregnancy is important. Gaining too much or too little weight can lead to complications.

If weight gain is too rapid, there’s a higher risk of gestational diabetes or high blood pressure, and it can make labor more difficult. On the other hand, insufficient weight gain may impact the baby’s growth. Typically, weight gain in the second trimester should average about 0.26-0.48 kg per week.

You can help by monitoring her weight once a week and keeping an eye on any major changes. Encourage healthy eating and moderate exercise like walking together daily. Physical activity not only helps control weight but also relieves pregnancy discomforts, reduces stress, and improves sleep.

By being by her side and showing support, you’ll make this journey smoother for both of you.