Transition to parenthood
By Meryem Erkan · Published on
The term from couples research for the period from pregnancy until about two years after the birth of the first child. It describes the most thoroughly studied phase of strain in the life of a partnership.
In a longitudinal study of 218 couples, relationship satisfaction dropped right after the birth, more for mothers than for fathers, and it stayed lower for at least four years. Childless comparison couples did not show this sudden drop. Whether the child was planned made no difference.
At the same time, the division of labour shifts for good. According to German data, 47 per cent of couples shared the housework roughly equally before the birth, only 24 per cent afterwards, and three years later the figure was still at that level.
If you like, I will walk with you a little further.
Every Thursday a letter, written for women, with one thought you can try out in everyday life.
If your relationship involves violence, systematic belittling, control or isolation, this is not a question of communication. In Germany, the violence against women helpline is available around the clock, free and anonymously on 116 016. Elsewhere, please contact your local emergency services or a local helpline.