Pregnancy and Birth

Pregnant women who have partners must face three other developmental tasks. One developmental task for the woman and her partner is the commitment to make each other and the coming child a priority in their lives. That task may involve adjustments in their usual social life with family members and friends, as well as adjustments in the family budget to provide for another family member. Another developmental task is the division of household responsibilities and responsibilities related to work. The pregnant woman may, for example, need help with household activities, such as heavy cleaning and care of pets. Furthermore, women and partners who both have careers may decide that one of them will take an extended leave from work after the baby is born. A third developmental task is the formation of a relationship that is emotionally and sexually satisfying to both the woman and her partner and that is characterized by open, honest communication.