“We are having a baby!” These five simple, little words can raise the blood pressure of almost any living, breathing male on the planet. In fact these innocent words ignite an even bigger reaction than “we need to talk”. No matter how the news is broken, this is just the beginning.
You're going to be a daddy!
It is wonderful and at the same time intimidating to be told by your partner that you are about to embark into fatherhood and that your life is going to change. For some men, the reality of fatherhood doesn't hit until the day they hold their child in their arms. This reality of being a dad arrives at a later period; while moms experience motherhood the moment they know they're pregnant. Nevertheless, fathers play a crucial part in a child's development and future role in society. So as a dad-to-be, how do you prepare yourself for fatherhood? One of the things you often hear women complain about is how selfish their partners are – wanting sex despite being overly tired, not helping around the house, not spending time with the baby etc, but the shock and the lack of information on what you need to do can be an unrecognised issue. So the best advice to follow is to be pro-active and get involved! Be genuine about wanting to learn what's happening to your partner physically and emotionally. Ask her about the books she's reading, what the birth plans are, how she'd like you to help set up the nursery, and maybe be honest and tell your partner how you feel – frightened, shocked and clueless about what to do, but excited about the baby's arrival. The more you share positively, your partner will definitely appreciate knowing your thoughts and that you are thinking about this “new role” (she might be just as clueless about where to start). Remember, you're both in this journey together.
“I cannot think of any need in childhood as strong as the need for a father’s protection.”
For more information see Parenting.
