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A first-time dad’s guide to pregnancy: What every man should know
27th June, 2026 07:06 PM
Finding out you are going to be a father can trigger a whirlwind of emotions: joy, excitement, nervousness and even fear.
For starters, seeking information and looking for advice about fatherhood is commendable. Too many times in life, we all like to pretend we know more than we really do.
Understand physical and emotional changes
Pregnancy affects much more than a growing baby bump.
As a man, it is important to understand that your partner may experience morning sickness, fatigue and food cravings or aversions.
Among other changes to expect from an expectant mother are mood swings, which are caused by hormonal changes and physical changes such as back pain and discomfort as the pregnancy progresses.
These changes can be physically and emotionally demanding. Patience, empathy and understanding go a long way in helping your partner feel supported.
Attend antenatal appointments together
Whenever possible, accompany your partner to antenatal visits.
Antenatal visits are scheduled appointments with a healthcare provider during pregnancy to monitor the health of both the mother and the developing baby
These appointments allow you, as an expectant dad, to learn about your baby’s development and understand your partner’s health needs.
While at it, the visit provides you a platform to ask questions about pregnancy and childbirth and also hear the baby’s heartbeat or see ultrasound images when appropriate.
Being present also shows your partner that you are equally invested in the pregnancy.
Learn the basics
When you are preparing to be a dad, there’s a lot of tactical stuff to be familiar with. The basic baby skills include how to hold your baby, change a diaper and most importantly, how to bond with your baby through practices like “kangaroo care”.
Other basic skills include how to burp a baby, swaddle a baby, bathe a baby safely and how to calm a fussy baby.
Know your role at birthing time
OK, we know you are not the one who’s going to be going through the rigours of labour and delivery itself. But you are still an important part of the birth, and there is plenty of support work you can do.
Your role during labour and delivery is to help however you can with what the birth mother needs from you. Have a conversation about how you can be supportive.
