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10 Ways to Stay Close After Your Baby Arrives

Welcoming a baby is one of life’s most extraordinary transitions. It’s awe-inspiring, humbling, and—let’s be honest—relentlessly exhausting. The arrival of your little one is like a meteor hitting the center of your relationship: everything shifts. The familiar rhythms of “us” are replaced with diaper changes, midnight feedings, and a love so fierce it can leave you both breathless and bewildered.

Amidst the wonder and upheaval, staying connected as a couple might feel like one more task you don’t have energy for. But tending to that bond isn’t selfish—it’s essential. A robust and affectionate relationship serves as a stabilizing force during challenging times. These ten guiding practices offer practical, compassionate ways to stay close while navigating the beautiful chaos of new parenthood.

1. Reclaim the You in “Us”

It’s easy to lose yourself in the role of “Mom” or “Dad.” But the vibrant, complex person you were before the baby still matters. Make space—however small—for the things that bring you joy and a sense of self. Whether it’s 30 minutes with a book, a quick workout, or picking up an old hobby, these acts of self-nourishment refill your emotional cup and help you return to your partnership more centered and whole.