Here are nine reasons why relationships can hit a rough patch during pregnancy!

For Mom:

The Hormones
The pregnancy hormone progesterone is often to blame for the notoriously bad moods many pregnant women experience, which can put a strain on the relationship. It’s very similar to PMS, caused by the same hormone. At the same time, progesterone helps the uterus accept a fertilized egg and allows it to grow, so maybe it’s a case of taking the bad with the good…

Jealousy
Some women may feel anxious and jealous during pregnancy, even having nightmares about their partner being unfaithful. These feelings are natural and often a sign of feeling extra vulnerable during pregnancy. Historically, it’s been vital for survival for the mother to pause and make sure she feels safe and secure before the baby arrives. Worry and jealousy can become ways to cope with and protect yourself from the fear of being abandoned. However, this can cause problems in the relationship when jealousy drives behaviors.

The Aches and Pains
When someone feels unwell or extremely tired, they tend to focus more on themselves and their own needs. This can be hard on a relationship, but accepting your own sensitivity can increase the odds that your body gets what it needs. Pain also adds stress, which can affect your energy, mood, and patience, making it easier to fall into arguments.

For the Partner:

Uncertainty
It’s common to have mixed feelings about pregnancy and becoming a parent. For example, you might wonder whether this was really what you wanted or even question if the baby is really yours. While these thoughts can be very tough, it’s usually best to talk openly with each other about your concerns and feelings. If you don’t know how to start the conversation, couples therapy can provide valuable support.

Feeling Left Out
When someone is pregnant, the pregnancy and growing belly often become the focus of everyone’s attention, which can leave some partners feeling left out or even jealous. These feelings can sometimes lead to guilt and stress, which affect mood and behavior. It’s not uncommon for partners to experience mood swings similar to those of a pregnant woman.

The Birth
It’s not just women who experience a fear of childbirth—partners often have strong feelings of uncertainty that are much less talked about. Many partners feel significant worry for both the pregnant mom and the baby as the birth approaches, along with anxiety about how to manage their role as a support person during labor.

For Both:

Sex Life
Your sex life can take a hit for both physical and emotional reasons. Many couples find it challenging to adapt their sex life and openly talk about what’s not working. The frequency of sex may also change, which can create an imbalance. However, exploring intimacy beyond intercourse and continuing to communicate about what you both want can help maintain closeness.

Family Relationships
A new baby often brings up big questions, like reflecting on your own upbringing and your relationship with your parents. There may be fears about repeating mistakes from previous generations. Differences in how the new grandparents show their care and support can also become a source of conflict between partners.

The Adjustment
The contrast between life before and during pregnancy can feel bigger for some couples than others. If your relationship thrived on going out to restaurants, outdoor adventures, or exciting trips, the adjustment can feel even tougher. The new lifestyle might seem dull, but slowing down can also be an opportunity to discover new sides of each other.