Mothers, remember that your partner cannot always guess your needs. Your spouse does not instinctively know what to do and may in reality feel lost. Don't become a prisoner of stereotypes. One major cause of postnatal tensions between partners can be eliminated by avoiding the roles of "father hen" and "perfect mother." Reestablish frank, open communication. Try to respect each other's uncertainties. Ask yourself "How would I react if I were only a spectator and not the main actor?"

Give your partner precise tasks to fulfill. Make him feel needed. Find time for yourselves as a couple (some 90 percent of couples go out less after the birth of a child). You need outside activities! Having children satisfies a basic need for many women. But all women also need adult relationships. A child will never replace the lover and partner.