Ever had your world turned upside down by someone moving in? I did — my sister moved in with me and my husband right when I was pregnant, and it was a rollercoaster from day one.

You might have caught the recent article, My sister lived with my partner and me when I was pregnant and we were newlyweds. She moved out 5 months after moving in. It really struck a chord with me because, well, I’ve been there.

At first, the idea seemed perfect—help with rent, someone to share the excitement, a built-in babysitter in the future—what could go wrong? But as the months passed, it became clear that we were all at very different stages of life. My husband and I were navigating the whirlwind of pregnancy and newlywed life, while my sister was in a completely different headspace. The dynamics shifted, and subtle tensions crept in.

Here’s what living with my sister during that precious time taught me about support and relationships:

• Timing is everything. When family moves in, their life rhythms and yours collide. Pregnancy is emotional and exhausting, and sometimes, you need space to heal and connect as a couple.
• Communication can’t be an afterthought. Early on, we realized we had to set clear expectations around privacy, chores, and emotional support. Without that, misunderstandings pile up fast.
• Support comes in many forms. While having hands around to help was amazing, sometimes what I craved was emotional understanding, not just physical presence.

So, if you’re thinking about inviting family or close friends to live with you during pregnancy or early parenthood, here are a few tips to keep the peace and nurture your bond:

1. Set boundaries early. Discuss everyone’s needs and limits before moving day.
2. Create ‘couple time.’ Protect time for you and your partner to connect without third-party interruptions.
3. Have regular check-ins. Weekly chats can clear the air and ensure everyone feels heard.
4. Be honest about feelings. It’s okay to acknowledge when things get tough.

But what if your journey toward parenthood is a bit more complex? Like using at-home fertility methods or insemination kits? Having a supportive environment is even more crucial then. That’s why companies like MakeAMom are game-changers. They provide discreet, reusable insemination kits tailored for various needs—whether you’re dealing with low motility sperm or sensitivities like vaginismus—all designed for comfort and success right in your own home.

Navigating fertility and pregnancy can already be a delicate emotional journey, and sometimes the best support is having tools and loved ones who understand and respect your process.

Living with my sister during that time wasn’t always easy, but it taught me to cherish honest communication and the power of empathy. Whether it’s family living situations or the path to conception, remember: your journey is unique, and creating the right support system makes all the difference.

So, are you considering inviting someone to move in during your pregnancy or fertility journey? What boundaries or tips would you add? Share your stories and thoughts below — let’s build this supportive community together!