Welcome to the home stretch! The last three months are said to be the longest, and trust me that’s how it’s going to feel. Why, you may ask? Well, I want you to look down at your stomach and imagine having 20-30 pounds of extra weight around your midsection and body. No, a beer gut doesn’t count. I’m talking about having placenta, amniotic fluid, water retention and a 7-9 pound baby using your bladder as a pillow. Now you can imagine why it’s so uncomfortable. By the way, it’s not uncommon for us guys to have some weight gain along with our wives.

I use the word “some” loosely because I had quite a few pounds added on myself. Don’t feel bad, apparently we have the same ratio of hormones as the women, although it’s obviously a smaller amount it’s still enough to help us gain our own “baby” weight. Nikki thought it was pretty cute. At least one of us did. Well, just get ready for a few trips to Helplessville. You remember that place from the first trimester. Seriously, though, I’m convinced nature has a way of proving that women are tougher than men.

Don’t spend too much time in Helplessville, though, because there are a few things you can do to help (at least a little)

•Keep up the massaging – Don’t rub her ankles! It causes uterine contractions. Her swollen feet could use a good rub, though. Also, back massages may not feel so good anymore. If she does still want backrubs, massage in a top to bottom direction to prevent gas pain.

•Keep her hydrated and cool – All that extra heat can be even more uncomfortable if she overheats. Nikki would overheat after just 5 minutes in the shower. I tried to keep cool drinking water as much as possible. Also, invest in AC or open the windows, depending on the season.

Also, it’s time to start making certain preparations for the delivery. It may feel premature, but you’ll be glad you did.

•Get a bag ready and set aside with a bathrobe and overnight clothes for both of you.

•Get another bag with snacks and games – I didn’t realize this before but labor can take a long time! This is especially true if it’s your 1st baby. In our case it was 26 hours before Cadyn (our son) arrived. Nikki, her mom and I played a great deal of cards during the slow period.

As a helpful hubby, take part in the preparations or even take charge of them. Your wife needs to focus on what’s ahead.

This brings me to my final big point, and this goes for both of you. Enjoy your sleep! I mean it, take naps whenever you can, preferably together for cuddling purposes. Once baby shows up, sleep is scarce and you will probably feel like a zombie.

Grant Carroll proud father and co-owner of http://www.littlepamperedbabies.com with Baby Clothes and Baby Shower Gift Ideas Also visit Little Pampered Pets where you can find boutique quality Dog Clothes and Small Dog Sweaters

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