The Father

The Fathers Role during Pregnancy

These days a father's role during pregnancy has become a lot more involved. It used to be that men were the ones that were there during conception and then they drove their wives to the hospital, suitcase in hand. After that they were in the waiting room handing out cigars while a nurse was coaching their wives through delivery. Now men go to birthing classes and take pride in being the coach for the birthing process. They also stand beside the mother to be and watch as their baby enters the world.

The most awesome feeling for a first time dad is when they baby kicks for the first time. When a dad is involved with every aspect of their baby they feel as important as their wife is as the deliverer of the baby. A father to be should get as much tummy time as possible. This gets the child the used to the voices of the mom and dad. Music can be played to the unborn child either on a stereo or with headphones on the tummy with the music on low volume, of course. Also dad can grab a Dr, Seuss book or another childhood favorite and read to his unborn child. These are two great ways, along with the touching of the belly, for dad to connect and spend quality with his unborn child.

The hardest thing for a woman to do while pregnant, is to give up certain aspects of her lifestyle. This includes smoking and having that occasional glass of wine. If these two are a problem the, then the father can help out. Try slowing down with both of these habits too if you participate with them on occasion. This does not mean that you have to stop both things totally, but take her feelings into consideration. Order less alcohol at the restaurant if you two go to dinner or opt for sparkling grape juice in wine glasses so that she feels included and not left out.

Being there for the mom to be is the best thing that a new father can do. Simply talking about the baby together is essential. Discussing the baby's name, the nursery, and all of the necessary items like the car seat and crib will get mom and dad both excited about the upcoming delivery. Another way to get dad involved is to have him at all of the doctor's appointments. This way he is there for all of the sonograms and important facts concerning the baby's health. A father's role is based upon how much he wants to be involved. It only happens once to have your first child and not being there may be something you regret later on.