With Father’s Day this weekend, there are many first-time fathers preparing for this life-changing event. Adjusting to new responsibilities and expectations may feel overwhelming at first, but you’ll have plenty of time to get it right. Newborns do not come with a manual, so first-time fathers must learn on-the-job.
Dr. Juan Vargas, OB/GYN at Ochsner Medical Center – Baton Rouge, has a few tips for these dads-to-be.
Be aware of pregnancy symptoms.
It’s not unusual for new dads to suffer from a condition known as “couvade syndrome,” a French term that roughly translates to "we're pregnant." Couvade syndrome, also called sympathetic pregnancy, can cause expectant fathers to experience some of the same symptoms and behavior of an expectant mother. Symptoms can include insomnia, nausea, mood swings, food cravings, and “labor pains.”
Don’t worry.
There are a number of potential fears and emotions that expectant fathers experience during pregnancy, birth, and the baby’s first year. The most common concerns include financial security, safety and health of the mother and baby, medical procedures, caring for a newborn, or feeling replaced by the baby. These concerns can lead to an overwhelming feeling of anxiety and stress. Talk about your fears with your partner, seek reassurance, and work through the issues together.
Hold your nerve.
You may feel a sense of panic when the doctors and nurses leave you, literally, holding the baby. This will naturally coincide with your baby waking up more and crying louder. Remain calm. Go through the checklist as to why the baby may be crying. Full tummy? Clean diaper? Fever-free?
Know who to ask.
Make sure you’ve got all the important numbers you need. That way, when you’re worried about something, you can quickly call the best person for advice. You may also want contacts for your local breastfeeding consultant.
Stock Up.
Stock up your home with plenty of food for quick and easy meals. Often, there will be too much to do in one day to allow time for cooking. Accept that meals will be chaotic at first, and be ready to provide quick meals when needed. Also, get to know the baby aisle in your local supermarket. You want to be able to dash easily in and out for diapers, or any other essentials at a moment's notice.
Be Informed.
There are number of resources available that provide valuable information. Ochsner Medical Center – Baton Rouge offers free couples prenatal classes and education.
For prenatal class information or patient appointments at any Ochsner - Baton Rouge region locations, call (225) 761-5200 or visit www.ochsner.org/batonrouge.