Although pregnancy imposes tremendous physical and emotional changes on women that are clear for all to see, men too have enormous emotional reactions to pregnancy. Because these changes are invisible and the woman receives all of the attention you may feel excluded from the pregnancy.
It is important to discuss these emotions with your partner. Both of you need emotional support, and it is important to open up and become comfortable discussing these feelings early. Soon you will have a baby in the family to whom you will have to act as a role model.
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It is important to learn how to be caring and supportive to your spouse and your new baby. The emotional reaction of most fathers is delayed until the pregnancy is confirmed or the mother's figure has changed. Some men don't fully accept the pregnancy until the baby has moved. At that time men will undergo a variety of emotions including tremendous joy, pride and wonder at the process of birth. But like the women, men too face fears of responsibility both emotionally and financially.
Many men focus considerable attention on their job because they feel they need to be successful before the birth of the baby. Read BabyPartner's Guide to Finances to help plan for the financial future of your baby. This sense of responsibility makes many men feel trapped in their relationship. This is especially true if the baby has not been planned. These are fears that are difficult to discuss and are frequently kept hidden, because most fathers feel that they need to be supportive of the pregnant mother.
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Some men are actually frightened of the changes to their partner's pregnant body. They worry about hurting the growing baby inside. There is also a sense of guilt that their own sexual desire may threaten the baby as well. Read BabyPartner's Guide to Sex During Pregnancy to learn more about the way nature protects the baby from physical activity.
Your partner too will be undergoing tremendous emotional changes. Read BabyPartner's Guide to Becoming A Mother to learn about her reactions to her pregnancy. If you understand how she feels you will learn that you are having similar reactions. This will help you to discuss these emotions with each other and support each other emotionally.
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