Partner support: What to expect through antenatal

Introduction

Welcome to the world of antenatal care! Becoming a new parent can bring a mix of excitement, nerves, and plenty of surprises – often all at once.

Fortunately, there are lots of maternity appointments, antenatal classes, and scans to help you and your partner prepare, make sense of everything, and ask all the questions you need before your little one arrives.

And while your partner may be centre stage, there are many ways you can support them and get ready for the big day together – helping you both feel confident for the journey ahead.

How can I support my partner during pregnancy?

You can make a world of difference by getting involved and supporting each other in simple, meaningful ways.

You can:

• Prepare together – attend antenatal appointments, pack your hospital bags, and plan your route to the hospital, or check the plan with your midwife if you’re having a home birth
• Stay organised – keep important phone numbers handy, fuel/charge in the car, and sort out benefits, parental leave, and childcare vouchers early
• Keep each other healthy – enjoy gentle exercise, eat well together, and remind your partner to take their vitamin D and folic acid supplements¹
• Be informed and proactive – encourage your partner to speak to their midwife or GP about any worries, and consider joining an online baby club, like the SMA® Baby Club to receive personalised emails about each stage of your pregnancy journey²

What to expect at antenatal classes

Antenatal classes aren’t just about labour and delivery – they’re a great way to meet other parents expecting babies around the same time as you, ask questions, and squash any worries.

HSE classes: These are free of charge, cover the essentials, and are led by a midwife or healthcare professional. You’ll learn what to expect throughout your pregnancy and post-birth and meet other parents-to-be in your area.³ You can sign up to these via your midwife, GP, or local hospital.

Private classes (Cuidiú Antenatal Ireland): You pay for these, the sessions may be longer, and they’re more interactive, covering the basics, plus extra tips. They’re also a fantastic way to build a postnatal support network with other parents-to-be in your area.⁴ You can sign up to these at https://antenatalireland.ie/

Most antenatal classes start when your partner is around 30 to 32 weeks pregnant. And if you’re expecting twins, at around 24 weeks pregnant.⁵ Whichever classes you choose, it’s best to sign up early, so you get the dates you want.

What to expect at midwife & antenatal appointments

Your partner will have regular check-ups throughout their pregnancy to make sure both they and your baby are happy and healthy. These will include routine antenatal appointments with a midwife or healthcare professional, scans to check your baby’s growth and development, and a chance to ask questions, get advice, and prepare for labour and life after birth.

The number of appointments your partner has will depend on whether it’s their first baby, but you can expect plenty of support at every step. Check out our antenatal article for a more detailed breakdown.

Many partners find it helpful to attend appointments but it’s down to personal choice. You’re entitled to take unpaid time off work to go with your partner to up to two antenatal appointments,⁶ giving you the chance to be part of the journey.

What questions should I ask at antenatal appointments?

You can ask your midwife anything to do with your partner’s pregnancy and birth. As well as looking after your partner and baby, they’re there to guide you both along the way.

You might find it helpful to ask about things like mental health support, parental benefits, and what to do if your partner is worried something isn’t right. You may also find it helpful to write down a list of questions to take with you or make notes during your visit, so you don’t forget.

For an idea of questions to ask at your antenatal appointment, why not read our helpful midwife appointment checklist below or download and take it with you?

Download

What emotional support can I offer during pregnancy?

Sometimes the best support is simply being there – although hugs and kind words can mean a lot too.

Ask your partner how they’re feeling, listen to them, stay informed, encourage them to see their midwife or GP if they’re feeling worried, and make them feel cared for.

How can I bond with my baby before birth?

Although you can’t hold your baby – yet – there are ways to feel more connected. Bonding takes time but there are many things you can do before they’re born:

• Let them hear your voice – regularly talking, singing or reading to your partner’s bump is a lovely way to bond – did you know your baby can hear from around 16 weeks, maybe even earlier?⁷
• Imagine the future – take some time with your partner to think about what your baby will look like, be like, and what you’re most looking forward to sharing with them. Chat about names, room décor, your roles when they arrive – it’ll all help.
• Do your homework – go to antenatal classes, be at the scans, read up on the age stage they’re at – are they the size of an avocado (around 16 weeks), or are they now a grapefruit (around 23 weeks)?⁸

What if I feel left out during pregnancy?

It’s understandable to feel left out during pregnancy – especially with so much focus on your partner. Remember, your feelings are valid. Try sharing how you feel with your partner calmly and openly – with so much happening, they may not realise how you’re feeling.

Doing more things together, like attending maternity appointments, scans, and antenatal classes, can help you feel more involved. Antenatal classes are also a great way to meet other parents-to-be who are at a similar stage, including partners who may be experiencing similar feelings.

The most important thing is to be open and honest with each other or share your thoughts with a close friend or family member. And if you need extra support, speak to your midwife or GP.⁹

Are there antenatal resources specifically for dads and partners?

Yes, there are many resources designed just for dads and partners – or that actively welcome their involvement.

They include:

• HSE Antenatal Classes – designed to prepare parents for labour, birth, and beyond. They’re for all expectant mothers, and partners are encouraged to go along to all classes.
• Cuidiú – a parent-to-parent, voluntary support charity offers antenatal courses with a format that’s unique to Ireland. Dads and partners are encouraged to attend all sessions.
• Antenatal Ireland – run by Cuidiú-trained antenatal educators, offers antenatal classes for both parents. Dads and partners are encouraged to attend every class.
• MANtenatal – is a digital, father-focused platform for prenatal education, providing courses, coaching, and support for expectant dads on everything from birth prep and newborn care to mental health.