Jackson Hospital | Partners | Fall 2020

12 Jackson Hospital COMMUNITY During delivery, much of the attention is on the mother. While the mother is doing most of the hard work, the father’s presence during pregnancy, labor and birth is incredibly important to develop a strong family bond with his new baby. Self-care and preparation for new fathers is not commonly talked about, but they have fears and uncertainties when a baby is on the way. Their lives will be forever changed by fatherhood, and their concerns are valid. It is normal for an expecting father to be anxious when their partner is pregnant due to the impending changes in household roles or the weight of increased dependency from both their partner and baby. This anxiety is normal, and studies have shown that testos- terone levels can drop in the months before their baby is born and may not recover until months after birth. Lower testosterone levels in men can create FAMILY TIME for new dads Advice increased anxiety and depression. Though dad may be feeling the pres- sure, there are ways to overcome this uncertainty and prepare for the new journey ahead. It is important for men to seek out advice from other fathers and gain insight into others’ experiences. Friends or family who have experienced fatherhood can help ease a new father’s fears and give them helpful advice for this transition. Building bonds Bonding with their new baby may also help a new father create a closer connec- tion to his baby. Skin-to-skin contact is important for fathers, and initial contact with a new dad should be made soon after birth. After the mother has received skin-to-skin time with baby, allow the father to snuggle, change a diaper or rock the baby to sleep. The bond a father has with his baby is unique and can help reassure his ability to help care for his new family. After your new family has returned home, men need to be reassured that they are doing enough for their family. Despite a chaotic, new schedule, new moms can encourage their partner to talk about their feelings and express their concerns. Make time each day to talk, snuggle or watch TV together. Allow dad to change diapers, bathe, rock and help feed your baby to help build his confi- dence and strengthen his bond with baby. Bonding as a family is incredibly important for your baby. Take the time after birth to connect as a new family and begin settling into your new normal. Dad, siblings and grandparents are all vital pieces of your family unit, and each has their own role to play in your new baby’s life!