“Research shows almost 1 in 3 partners fall into the clinical range of marital distress during the first 18 months after the birth of a baby, with a decrease in love and increase in conflict being reported.”
Many couples seek counselling when the strains of parenthood begin to affect their relationship, causing shifts in their connection and happiness. While traditional prenatal classes cover essential topics like birth, feeding, and childcare, the importance of nurturing a couple’s relationship during this pivotal life stage is often overlooked.
Preparing and strengthening your relationship before parenthood is crucial, not only for your well-being but also for your children’s development. When children witness positive relational patterns, they learn essential life skills for problem-solving, stress management, and building healthy relationships in the future.
The Importance of Positive Relationship Models
Children thrive when they see relationships marked by awareness, effective communication, conflict resolution, and affection. As parents, it is invaluable to recognise the potential challenges your relationship might face during this time.
Reflecting on your own childhood experiences can help you understand how these might influence your journey into parenthood. This awareness helps you tune into each other’s needs and expectations, enhancing your relationship during times of change, stress, and fatigue.
Early Relationships and Their Lasting Impact
The early relationships we encounter shape our perceptions of relationships in adulthood. These initial interactions influence how we view relationships – whether as places of security or conflict – and the value we place on connection rituals. They form the foundation on which we build our own relationship experiences over time.
Proactive Measures for Relationship Health
Taking proactive steps can help prevent the pressures of parenthood from affecting your relationship. Strengthening your bond as you navigate life’s changes together is essential, not only for your personal happiness but also for your children’s well-being. By investing in your relationship before your child arrives, you create a stable, loving environment that fosters growth, security, and positive relational patterns for your whole family.
If you are a couple or co-parents preparing for or experiencing parenthood, including those with children under 2 years old, we invite you to join our workshop: “From Partners to Parents: Relationship Navigation in Parenthood.” This heart-centred workshop focuses on the transition into parenthood, offering insights and coping strategies for couples and addressing relationship dynamics amid the challenges of parenting.
Let’s create a loving, resilient foundation for your growing family.
Click here to learn more: From Partners to Parents Workshop
Parent & Relationships Therapist
Bree Baxter
