From Partner to Parent: How Dads Can Prepare for Fatherhood

Most new dads worry about not knowing what to do. Good news is that parenting isn't just about instinct, but it's something that you learn.

Approximately 80% of fathers report being "pleased" or "overjoyed" when the pregnancy is confirmed, yet many feel unprepared for the journey ahead - this is based on the Mental Health Foundation and the National Library of Medicine. The transition to fatherhood is not only psychological but physical as well as research shows that it activates the same nurturing brain pathways as well as they hormone of oxytocin as seen in mothers.

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Would you like to feel more prepared as the due date approaches? Subscribe to Parent Path's weekly pregnancy emails which are also for partners and explore our antenatal support including antenatal courses, Birth Plan Prep workshops and more.

Got questions or need support as a new parent? Feel free to email me at info@parentpath.eu

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Supporting Your Partner During Pregnancy and Beyond

• Early involvement matters: Fathers who attend scans and prenatal visits often feel more connected to the pregnancy and better prepared for birth. Joining an antenatal course together can "encourage partner participation, strengthening the support system and shared understanding between expectant parents."

• Support is powerful: Continuous presence during labour - whether through touch, encouragement or advocacy - can impact the progression of labour, the use of pain relief methods as well as increase the chances of a more positive birth experience for the birthing person.

• Your role is vital: Studies say that partners want to help, but some feel on the sideline or don't know how they can help. Preparing in advance can help you step into this role with more confidence and help you into being "one half of the birthing couple".

How Dads Can Prepare for Fatherhood

• Get the Mini Guide to Confident Parenting: Parent Path has created a mini guide to help boost your confidence as a parent whether you're expecting or have already welcomed your bundle of joy!

• Educate yourself: I know that the information out there can be overwhelming, but try to find evidence-based and trustworthy spaces where you can get the information that you need - books, podcasts, workshops and of course antenatal courses. Based on studies, fathers experience less anxiety during labour and early parenthood and play more proactive roles if they're more informed.

• Visualise your role: Try to picture yourself supporting your partner, soothing your baby, changing nappies, advocating for you, your partner and your family. Such mental rehearsals can help you shift your mindset, reduce your stress and strengthen your readiness.

• Partner in parenting: You can try to share tasks like packing the hospital bag, time the contractions if needed, massage your partner etc. In general though - and this is something that I recently heard and loved - when we're talking about co-parenting or being equal as parents we don't mean sharing and doing everything 50-50. Rather, the meaning is for both parents to have 100% responsibility about everything and figure out together who might take the lead on some things and who on other things - every family and every situation is different so it is always great to have these conversations with your partners.

Communication is Your Superpower

I know that some partners don't feel that they're very strong in communicating their thoughts or feelings. However here are some tips that you might find helpful:

• Actively listen: Be present and simply ask "What do you need right now?" - it's ok to ask... you don't have to know everything or assume. When they answer, really listen and act on it. That’s where the magic happens! This can deepen the connection and trust between the two of you.

• Share how YOU are feeling: WHAT?! Yes, you can do it too! Share your excitement, your fears, your questions and have a conversation about this experience which is new to you. Being vulnerable can enhance the communication, the understanding but also build resilience as a couple

• Plan support: Discuss your preferences, create a Birth Plan together, talk about what each of you needs and how you can support each other not only during labour but beyond.

Mental Health For New Dads

Evidence shows that approximately 10% of new mums will show signs of postnatal depression. However, what most people probably don't know that the percentage is the same for men. Approximately 10% of new dads report perinatal anxiety or depression even though support for them is often overlooked.

• Self-care matters: Try to think about what your needs are and prioritise sleeping, eating healthy meals, exercising, spending time with friends or do what you need to do. Have a conversation with your partner and instead of getting into a competitive mode (ie who is more tired, who has more/ less needs etc) try to express both of your needs and figure out together how you can support each other to meet those needs.

• Find your tribe: Find local or online groups of dads-to-be or new fathers to share stories, exchange experiences, get tips and have fun!

• Ask for help: Struggling is not a sign of weakness or something to be ashamed of. Connect with health professionals or join one of Parent Path's events for peer support or signposting.

Your Role in Birth and Beyond

From offering comfort to being the baby's hand to hold in the early months, fatherhood is an ongoing and evolving journey. Your presence, empathy and engagement can build a strong foundation of security and love for your family.

If you have questions about the above, or about parenting I'd be happy to connect with you, discuss what you have in your mind and find ways that I could potentially support you! Wishing you all the best for this amazing and transformative role that you have!