Secrets about expecting dads
Ever wonder what your baby’s father is thinking about his new role as Dad? Many men don’t naturally come out and say how they feel, so here are some common traits of new dads. These thoughts and feelings are normal. Understanding them can reduce frustrations and strengthen your bond as a couple.
- Fathers-to-be experience the same roller-coaster ride of emotions as expectant mothers but not at the same time.
- Early on, when your hormones have launched into Mom mode, he has yet to fully appreciate that you’re really pregnant. The baby, so much a part of you, remains an abstract notion to him for several months.
- Expectant dads face their own worries. The initial rush of excitement over the pregnancy often is followed by fear, frustration, and confusion. He'll reflect on his own childhood. He'll fret about the changes in your marriage. He'll stew about family finances.
- He’ll likely keep all these concerns to himself, out of the mistaken belief that he's protecting you. But most dads-to-be are just waiting to be asked how they're doing.
- Despite what you may think, most dads truly want to be involved in the pregnancy. Involve him as much as possible!
- He still needs some free time. In fact, you both do! Set aside time each week where you each can have a little free time to do what you want. And make a plan for this after your baby arrives as well. You’ll both appreciate the break.
Want to know what else he’s thinking? Ask him! Your ability to communicate now will provide a strong foundation for when the difficult but satisfying work of parenting begins.
Did you know?
Expectant mothers and fathers dream differently. Moms tend to dream of newborn babies while dads dream of older children.
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