What every father-to-be should know

Pregnancy often centres around the expectant mother and the growing baby. While the internet overflows with advice for mothers on preparing for a healthy delivery, fathers are often left to navigate this life-changing period with limited guidance.

The focus tends to be on finances and practical preparations, leaving many men feeling unprepared for the emotional and relational shifts ahead. With the right information and a shift in perspective, fathers-to-be can also mentally prepare for this new chapter.

Here are some crucial insights for men embarking on the journey of fatherhood:

Your role as a father begins well before the baby arrives. Your actions should reflect the responsibility and care you'll soon be providing. Taking the initiative during pregnancy builds your partner's confidence in you as the due date approaches. Remember, during this time, your partner will be sensitive to your actions.

During pregnancy, your partner's needs will take centre stage, and that's understandable. Be prepared to be supportive and understanding, even when it requires putting your own needs aside. For instance, if she has a craving after your work shift, try to fulfil it. However, while catering to her needs is important, it doesn't mean you should tolerate mistreatment. Set healthy boundaries and maintain your dignity.

After the baby's arrival, your reassurance and attention are still vital for your partner. New fathers can easily become absorbed in caring for the baby, unintentionally neglecting their partner. While the baby needs attention, so does she. Work, new dad responsibilities, and hormonal changes can leave her feeling abandoned. Be mindful of her need for reassurance and affection.

While women are increasingly independent, pregnancy and new motherhood are not times to expect her to handle everything alone. Familiarize yourself with tasks like diaper changing and bathing the baby. Be prepared to share in the responsibilities, even if it means rocking the baby to sleep on occasion. These are skills you'll need when the baby arrives.

.

Keep Reading

• How to handle parenting in a changing world
• What you need to know before donating blood
• Why dirty thirty is as real as it sounds
• What causes depression and how to tackle it

Everyone experiences moments of being overwhelmed. Bottling up your feelings can lead to resentment and hinder your ability to support your family. The early months of fatherhood can be demanding, with hormonal shifts making your partner's behaviour unpredictable. You might feel neglected or stressed by the added responsibilities.

Don't force yourself to be perpetually happy. Allow yourself breathing room to process your feelings and express them constructively. Open communication is essential. If you need to, speak up and assert your needs respectfully.