TIPS AND ADVICE FOR DADSDURING THE PREGNANCY
Becoming a dad is an amazing experience, one that can feel daunting at times. It is normal and understandable to feel lost or unsure of yourself as you figure out how to support your partner as well as waiting for your child’s arrival.
A little preparation before the arrival of your child can help to avoid some stress and let you focus on the precious moments with your baby and wife.
- Build healthy habits –eat healthy and get regular exercise. Building a healthy lifestyle before your baby arrives will help give you the stamina for this experience.
- Make sure you getting enough sleep –once your baby arrives it will become much harder to get adequate sleep. It a good idea to discuss sleeping plan with your partner ahead of time.
- Look after your mental health – a new born will bring joy and excitement to your life and you will encounter difficulties as well. Developing good habits to manage stress can help you maintain the energy to look after your baby and support your partner. Be aware of postpartum depression and watch out for signs. It can affect fathers as well as mothers.
- Attend antenatal visits so you can follow your baby’s development and feel more connected to your wife and your baby
- Try to give your partner a little bit of a break from time to time
- Suggest and plan opportunities to spend quality time together and discuss feelings and fears
- Compile a ‘baby budget’. Think about getting financial advice and updating your will