How To Deal With Relationship Stress After Having A Baby?

The birth of a child is a joyous occasion and one of the most memorable moments of our lives. However, just like everything else, it comes with its own set of challenges for parents. This is especially true in today’s age when most people are living as nuclear families. The challenges can be even more if both parents have a job or other professional commitments. As such challenges can impact their relationship, couples need to tread carefully. To understand what to expect, let’s take a look at some common relationship challenges after having a baby and how to overcome them.

Not getting time for each other – As everyone is focused on the baby and their needs, couples find it difficult to get time for each other. The endless hours of feeding the baby, changing their diapers & clothes, and various other chores at home can keep a mom super busy 24/7. This can create a situation where one or both partners may experience the feeling of neglect. Couples need to find some time for each other even when it may only be for just a few minutes every day.

Loss of intimacy – Physical intimacy may take a backseat once a child is born. It may be due to emotional changes or physical issues such as a tear during childbirth or episiotomy. In case of the latter, the healing process can take a long time. Since physical intimacy is vital for a relationship, couples can try the next best alternatives such as holding hands, cuddling, or oral sex.

Financial issues – The cost of raising children can be significant. This is why the addition of a new family member can put more pressure on available finances. It is imperative that parents will have to either increase their earnings or plan to reduce their expenses. Such challenges can create stress, which will eventually have a negative impact on the relationship. It is important for couples to discuss things freely and work together to find solutions to their financial woes. Some careful planning and discipline will be needed to achieve that goal.

Last but not least, couples may also experience a certain level of boredom. Changing nappies may not always be fun and things like going out for recreation or planning a vacation may be unavailable for several months. In case of mothers, it may become hard for them to find some time for themselves. Such challenges need to be dealt with in a creative manner. Also, support of other family members and friends can come handy in such situations.