Dad’s Need Postpartum Support Too

Having a baby is a life changing experience. People assume that change primarily affects the birthing person, since they are the one that will face significant physical and emotional challenges. It has become more widely acknowledged that attention should be given to support them as they navigate these changes. But, how often do you hear of support for fathers as they navigate the emotional, and yes, even hormonal changes they will experience?

At My Happy Newborn, we are passionate about providing a positive experience for both the birthing person, and the partner that views themselves as a father. We want fathers to know that the birth and postpartum experience is as important as their birthing partners experience. How will postpartum support benefit you, Dad?

Research has shown that men's testosterone levels can decrease during their partner's pregnancy, and can remain lower for several weeks after the birth of their baby. This decrease in testosterone can be linked also to increased levels of the hormone, prolactin. While prolactin is a hormone primarily associated with lactation in woman, increased levels in men can affect several functionals in the male body, but also it can cause emotional changes and lead to depression, anxiety and irritability. So like your birthing partner, Dad, you will also experience a range of emotions and challenges during the postpartum period. Postpartum support can help you adjust to your new role, cope with sleep deprivation and changes in routine, learn how to care for your newborn, and provide help with household support so that you will have time to focus on what is most important; bonding with your new family. It could also free up some time and create opportunities for you and your partner to make sure you are connected. Connection between partners creates an atmosphere that will help your baby feel secure and loved.

We know that you are feeling anxious about the uncertainties that surround concerns for your partners health as they grow your baby and prepare to deliver. It can be very scary to see them in pain and it's so scary to hear medical terms like, "Cesarean". You might feel like everyone's attention is on your partner, and no one asks if you are ok. You are having a baby and you are freaking out!

Your baby finally arrives, and as you're holding and gazing down at them, this weird feeling wells up from the deepest parts of your gut. It's a mix of intense love and sense that you would do anything to protect them, but it's also a sick, scared feeling that you won't know how to do it. Will I be a good Dad? How do I plan my financial future to include a child? How will I balance my work and home life? Will my baby be healthy? How will I function at work with limited sleep for the next several weeks? How can I keep my family safe from harm?

At My Happy Newborn, we want to help alleviate some of your stress too Dad. Your physical and emotional health are important as well. Our role as cheerleaders and educators is to help you feel confident in your new role as a father. You will know how to swaddle, soothe, bathe and play with your baby. You will be involved in supporting your partner if they choose to breast feed. They need so much help to successfully do it! No one knows your partner better than you do. So, if you see changes in their emotional well-being, you are the best person to make sure the early signs are not missed, so they can seek appropriate support. You know what your partner likes to eat, no one is better suited to make sure they are eating regularly and healthy.

And you've already established a relationship with your baby, months before they were born. At around 6-7 months, they can hear some sounds from outside of the body. By the time they are full term, they are able to hear at the same level as an adult. That means your baby already knows your voice! No doubt, you've been talking at your partners belly all this time. Some Dad's have told me that immediately after their baby was born and they said something to them, their baby made eye contact. They already trust and know you. Now whatever you do after their birth will be building on what you started.

Being a Dad can be a scary thought, but with the right support and encouragement, you can feel confident. No one is going to be able to be a Dad to your child the way you will be. We would love to talk with you about specialized groups for Dads, and how we can help you one-on-one.