Honey, we're having a baby - How To Keep your Pregnant Wife Happy

For many men this is fantastic news, despite the obvious reality of more responsibilities the news of a pregnancy is usually a reminder that truly "You are the man". And if you've been waiting a long time you're ecstatic and there is good news for the in-laws, they can start hassling you about other things.

I must warn you the emotions of a pregnant woman are fragile, for the duration of the 9 months she might not exactly be the same sweet, smiley, sexy woman you married; calm down, this too will pass.

Not only is it hard for her emotionally, being pregnant is also physically draining. Do you know how how many calories she burns while lying on the couch?

Some of you will tell me that our grandmothers were going to the farm whilst pregnant and even delivering with a hoe and a machete by the side. I don't know how they did it. But if your wife has not been into farming before, then don't expect her to  act like a farmer now.

• Pray together often, declaring your desires for the pregnancy and the child on the way ("Supernatural Childbirth" by Jackie Mize and Terri Mize is a really good book).

• This one should be obvious, but just in case: Never tell a pregnant woman she’s fat. She knows this. Also, her feet (and maybe even her legs) will inevitably swell with water due to the added weight of a baby. Avoid the "F word" at all costs

• Please guys, we know you want her back to her pre-pregnancy shape after the pregnancy but don't talk about that right now especially when she says she is craving doughnuts. You can suggest a salad instead, but if you know what's good for you don't tell her she has to go back to a size 8 after the pregnancy she has enough on her mind right now

• Pray together often, declaring your desires for the pregnancy and the child on the way (Supernatural childbirth is a really good book).

• Try to accompany her to as many appointments as possible, it helps her to have her husband there with her in the waiting room and you get to support her in the event of unexpected news or celebrate in the event of good news.

• Randomly clean up something in the house, anything. Especially if you have other children who always seem to derive joy in scattering things. You’d be amazed what 15 minutes of cleaning up can do.Offer to clean up or do the dishes so that she will be able to rest. As the pregnancy progresses, things will be much harder for her to do-that tummy will always get in the way.

• Do not expect her to be happy all of the time. Even if you get her everything she wants and take care of everything around the house, she will still be going through a lot of emotions and physical pain so understand if she is not happy. Try not to argue with her about things because it is not good for a pregnant woman to get upset. Try to settle problems before they turn into fights.

• Rub her lower back. I don't know why, but this was so soothing and an extreme pleasure during labour also. Most women have testified to enjoying a lower back rub during pregnancy.

• Tell her how beautiful she is *straight face*. Her self esteem is probably low, so try to show her that you still think that she is pretty. There is a good chance that she thinks that you aren't attracted to her anymore because of her growing stomach (which I hope isn't true) , I have a friend who insisted on always making love in the dark because she was self-conscious about the size of her tummy and stretch marks. When she does her makeup or hair, comment on it. Positively, that is. Don't mention that her nose is twice the size

Ladies, did I leave anything out.? Keeping your pregnant wife happy isn't always easy, but these tips, should help you keep both of you smiling.

Ijeoma Olujekun