How to talk with your partner about conception

Whether you've been trying to conceive for a while, or if you're just thinking about it, talking with your partner about starting a family can be daunting. Here are a few tips to help you have the conversation:

1. Create a safe space

First, make sure you are open and honest with each other. Communication is key when both partners want to start a family but aren't having any luck getting pregnant. Be understanding and supportive of your partner's feelings, don't point fingers or assign blame.

2. Be open about your feelings and worries

Be honest about your feelings as well as your feelings for each other. Ask for help with managing your emotions, and try to understand your partner's emotions too. Try not to bring up all your fears about conception at once, especially if you haven't seen a doctor yet, but share what kind of support you wish to have.

3. Talk about men's and women's responsibilities

If you are trying to conceive and your partner is open about being interested in having children, talk about how important both men and women are in a baby's life. Discuss how pregnancy may affect both partners, including the interplay of work, parenting, and raising children. Talk about how they would adjust to their roles as a parent after a pregnancy goes awry or if they have birth defects.

4. Discuss the risks of conceiving

Talk about the different methods you have tried to conceive and how long it may take to conceive. Discuss your reasons for wanting to start a family and what pressures you are feeling. Be honest about the risk factors you face and how they affect your decision-making process.

5. Help your partner understand what it takes to get pregnant

Talk about all the different things that can prevent conception, and how to avoid these if possible. If you are having trouble conceiving, talk about the couple's health and lifestyle. Make each one accountable for taking care of their own bodies health, and then share the responsibility to take care of each other emotionally, through the lows and highs.

The best way to talk with your partner about conception is to create a safe space and voice your thoughts and feelings. You may have heard that talking about this can put pressure on a relationship, but it doesn't have to be that way. If you're comfortable and ready for a baby, then start planning for one together; have sex at the right time, and make sure you and your partner maintain a healthy lifestyle.

What are some of the things you look forward to most when you think about having a child? Tell us in the comments!

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