Supporting your partner after birth
Practical ways to show up for your partner in those first weeks.
general information, not medical advice. if something's worrying you, speak to your GP or a qualified professional.
The weeks after birth are huge for your partner, physically and emotionally. The most useful things are often the least glamorous: taking the baby so they can sleep or shower, handling meals and chores without being asked, and just listening without trying to fix everything.
Keep an eye on how they're doing — and on how you're doing too, because you can both be running on empty. If either of you seems to be struggling more than feels right, encourage a chat with the GP or health visitor.
need to talk to someone?
tadpole. isn't a crisis service. If you're struggling, these UK lines can help. Free and confidential.
- Emergencycall 999If you or someone else is in immediate danger.
- Samaritanscall 116 123Free, 24/7, for anyone in distress.
- CALMcall 0800 58 58 58Campaign Against Living Miserably — for men. 5pm–midnight daily.
- Shouttext SHOUT to 85258Free, confidential, 24/7 text support — text SHOUT to 85258.
- NHS 111call 111Urgent (non-emergency) mental health help — call and select the mental health option.