Maybe you’ve heard the term “sympathetic pregnancy,” referring to the symptoms men often display when their partners become pregnant. Historically, this condition was considered to be a psychological phenomenon only; now, research shows that the signs and symptoms displayed by many fathers-to-be are caused by hormonal shifts.
Dads-to-be often experience physical symptoms similar to your own.
If you’re expecting, then you are probably familiar with a variety of unpleasant pregnancy symptoms. As it turns out, expectant fathers have a tendency to experience some of the same sensations felt by moms-to-be. Common sympathetic pregnancy symptoms include:
- Sore, aching back
- Crazy food cravings
- Nausea, similar to morning sickness
- Insomnia
Of course, it’s possible that some of the tired feelings and insomnia have to do with staying up late and waking at all hours of the night along with mom, and that the weight gain comes from indulging in lots of extra calories. But there’s more: expectant fathers undergo unique hormonal changes that have a direct effect on the body, contributing to the changes they experience. Testosterone production drops, while prolactin and cortisol levels increase.
Scientists believe that these changes are brought on by exposure to the pregnant partner’s hormones – and they believe that these changes have an important purpose – that of transforming new dads into nurturers.
Dads get stressed, too.
Just like expectant moms, dads-to-be often experience elevated levels of stress and anxiety. There’s more responsibility now, and life is changing for both of you. Worries over finances, anxiety over whether he’ll be able to parent effectively, and concern for mom and baby are some common issues faced by expectant fathers. Eating right, exercising, and chatting with friends and family members are some ways to keep stress to a minimum.
Expectant dads can feel left out.
It’s common for expectant fathers to feel like underappreciated sidekicks during pregnancy. Despite playing an important role in bringing new life into the world, they’re often ignored while mom-to-be gets the bulk of the attention. Baby shower gifts, a whole new wardrobe, and lots of fussing – even from total strangers – make mom feel special. For dads who feel like they’re being left out, talking and connecting is more important than ever. Chatting with experienced dads can help; after all, they’ve been there!
New dads learn – a LOT.
There are lots of biological things going on, and as an expectant father, he’ll learn all about them – whether he really wants to or not. There’s more: dads to be get to experience the joy of learning all about babies – what they eat, how to hold them, how to diaper them, and more. Prenatal classes can help, particularly since other expectant dads will be present. There are even online dad classes, including some helpful freebies.
Fathers-to-be really are more attentive.
It’s not your imagination: If your partner suddenly seems to be more attentive and even more caring than before, it could be that he is receiving a boost of oxytocin, which is nicknamed “the love chemical” or the “cuddle chemical.” This hormone helps build attachment once baby arrives, plus it helps new dads respond appropriately when they hear their little ones fussing. Oxytocin encourages dads to bond by playing with their babies, too.
Staying connected with friends, bonding with other dads, and understanding what’s happening can make the challenges of pregnancy easier on fathers-to-be, ultimately strengthening your relationship and helping you build a lifelong bond with your new little one. Congratulations, dad! This time may be challenging – but it’s also very special. Soon enough, pregnancy will come to an end and life will take on a whole new sense of excitement.
Sources:
https://www.menshealth.com/health/how-pregnancy-affects-the-father
https://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/news/20110912/testosterone-may-drop-when-men-become-dads
https://www.webmd.com/men/news/20000623/expecting-fathers-hormonal-changes
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/quora/how-does-pregnancy-affect-your-partner_b_4949570.html
https://www.verywell.com/pregnancy-guide-for-men-first-trimester-2329043
https://www.webmd.com/men/features/advice-for-expectant-fathers#1
https://www.care.com/c/stories/4734/how-to-nurture-the-dad-bond/
