Helping Dads feel involved during pregnancy

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During pregnancy women, their families and society, in general, tend to focus mostly on the needs of the mother. It is understandable as, after all, she’s carrying the child physically. However, we often forget the needs men have during this period. Much as they were involved in the creation process, they are just as involved in the development of the child while in utero. Dads are sometimes hesitant to express their concerns or need for support due to a fear of being seen as selfish; there are steps we can actively take to create a safe space for them to do so. They are undergoing as dramatic a change as moms but might feel like expressing their needs would seem selfish.
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Research conducted by ManSoo Yu shows that while moms might be anxious about the prenatal and delivery, dads are heavily concerned about the future - how they will support their family, the kind of father they will be. Given our Caribbean dynamic, we know many of our men might not have been raised by their father or had a father figure in their home so this presents another concern for them - they had no one to teach them, will they know what to do.

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There are ways we can create a safe space for dads to express their concerns and receive support without feeling like they're being selfish. It’s also a great idea to pamper them and to encourage their friends to do the same, much like they would do for us. Here are some neat, bump-friendly ways you can make dad feel loved and appreciated as you go on this journey together!

• Book him a Personal Care day at his barber and cover all the charges or go all out with a full spa package.
• Call up his friends and encourage them to take him on a day out. If you choose to have a girls-only baby shower then this is the perfect time for that!
• Start the conversation about what the future might hold. He might be hesitant to bring up his concerns but an open discussion and planning together can put his mind at ease.
• Repay his many runs to get your latest craving by treating him to his favourite meal. Take out counts if pregnancy fatigue has you down!
• Surprise him with something he’s had his eyes on for a while.
• Tell him how much you appreciate him and let him know that you’re here for him too. Regular reminders that you’re a team and in this together will do wonders for him! ​
• Include him in the fanfare of it all (and not just the appointments!) Find fun ways you both can track your growing bump's progress that will help him bond more.​

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​Let us know how you’ve made your partner feel more involved and supported during your journey or which of these you plan to do!