Walking down the road in a busy city, you’ll see several men with their tiny babies in a stroller or carrier. Men can be seen actively involved with their newborn child’s life, but it does not mean that things are easy. Ofcourse, just the mother experiences physical aspects of pregnancy, but there are several physical and emotional challenges for the father too.
Even more than when the child is born, it is more challenging for dads during the actual pregnancy journey. Many fathers complain about food cravings, morning sickness, and body pain during the ‘pregnancy’ period.
Struggles & Challenges Faced by a Dad-To-Be
The journey from early pregnancy, pre natal care until childbirth, and post natal care, is a physical and emotional rollercoaster ride for dads as well. The baby is as much the father’s responsibility as it is of the mother. The first challenge men face is in their work life. All of a sudden, they have to make time for their wife’s doctor appointments, check what to eat during pregnancy, fitness sessions, and whatnot. Taking unexpected leaves, having to spontaneously leave the office, explaining stuff to the boss, it gets hard.
The emotional and mental health of dads-to-be is affected a lot. Their mind is clouded with thoughts regarding work, their wife’s health, the pregnancy journey, getting ready to be a father, dealing with family and relatives, planning for the future, and more. Many men find it difficult to accept parenthood. Some are worried about how to handle it, while some are totally not ready. They fear the loss of freedom the most because a baby requires 200% attention.
Dads-to-be also worry a lot about their partner’s health and pregnancy careplan. The physical issues, nutrition needs, healthcare and meds, all this stuff is really stressful for the father. They may not say it out loud, but every male finds it challenging to support and be there for their wife during the phase.
Financial concerns are another big obstacle because medical costs increase on a daily basis. Affording healthcare is not cheap these days and a father-to-be’s budget is totally overwhelmed during pregnancy time. As the date of delivery comes closer, the expenses keep rising. Moreover, loneliness and depression can also weigh a person down. It is all about the mother during this time and fathers can feel left out. With all attention given to the mom and the soon-to-be-born baby, it can be a lonely time for dads.
Do Dads Experience Symptoms During Pregnancy Like the Mother?
The main physical burden is on the mother during pregnancy, but men have suffered some symptoms as well. First and foremost is the hormonal change where the level of testosterone goes down in men. This boosts the love and support given to their wife and child. Other than this, not all, but few men also experience multiple symptoms.
Physical symptoms include – nausea and vomiting, intestinal problems, weight gain, restlessness, body pain, weakness, urinary issues, etc. Some emotional symptoms include altered sleep patterns, reduced libido, depression, and anxiety.
What Should Men Do During Pregnancy?
It is common for a person to be clueless when he is becoming a dad for the first time. First of all, it is vital for both the mom and dad to be emotionally ready for parenthood. It is a big responsibility for both, and they should be ready for the challenge. A healthy diet and lifestyle will go a long way in helping you out.
The workload is immense during this time, and you must divide responsibilities to make things easier. Be there to support your wife and help with anything that comes up. Always be open to help and talk to your partner, family members, friends, or professionals regarding your issues.
Some dads-to-be are reluctant to get help which is wrong. Mothers should help them break this taboo and push them to get necessary help. Seeking support shows strength, and you can also talk to fellow first-time-dads for advice. You will also be in a better position to offer psychological support to children and mother.
Emotional health is as vital as physical health during the pregnancy period. If a father is not in the right state of mind, then he won’t be able to properly support his partner and the soon-to-be-born child. Having clarity about the situation and keeping a positive mindset is really vital. An emotionally-healthy man automatically boosts his partner’s physical and mental well-being during pregnancy.
Right from early pregnancy to child delivery and beyond, mothers feel less stress, depression, and anxiety, especially postpartum depression, when the father is supportive and emotionally available. Stay on top of your emotions to give proper love and support to your wife and child.
Kulcare – Dads’ Go-To-Platform for Mom & Child Healthcare Support
Just like mothers, soon-to-be fathers can face a challenging time during pregnancy. Just worrying about their partner’s health and medical needs is enough to cause stress, especially if you work away and can’t be physically present with your partner. This is where Kulcare’s Virtual Mother and Child Clinic helps you.
With our platform, you don’t have to worry about anything because we take care of your wife’s pregnancy care services at every stage of the journey, digitally. We help with –
- Doctor appointments
- Childbirth education
- Nutrition plans
- Tests and diagnosis
- Prescriptions and meds reminders
Whatever the need may be, Kulcare will be your wife’s care partner and your go-to support platform. So dads, rest assured about your partner and child’s health, be in a positive and satisfied emotional state of mind.
