Expectant Dads: 10 Things They Should Know

Eyinade Eweje

If you just received the big news and you’re caught in the endless euphoria of becoming a dad, consider putting the champagne on hold and going through this to see just how prepared you are for the nine months ride into fatherhood.

1. GET YOUR FINANCES STRAIGHT

You’ll think you have this sorted out until you’re faced with a mountain of unforeseen bills to pay. Save yourself the stress and embarrassment by finding out likely bills from her doctor and perhaps budgeting for more impromptu expenses. You can’t afford to be stranded at any stage.

2. BRACE UP FOR SOME CHANGES

Her body is going to change and you’ll have to watch your reactions to that to avoid upsetting her. Whether she asks for your opinion or you’re giving it freely, you really have to watch your tongue now.

Her mood swings will need you to delete ‘anger’ from your dictionary and beef up your level of patience. She would exhibit excesses you never thought her capable of; don’t expect apologies nor request for one. She’s going through dramatic emotional shifts and a show of understanding from you is key here.

Prepare to help out with chores too. She may not be able to do as much as she used to and you don’t want her fatigued. Better still, get her an assistant. It’s more money but you asked for it.

Plus, your sex life too. It’s either sex becomes a no-no or she gets unusually hyper. Accept whichever in good fate and just go with the flow.

3. HER FOOD AVERSIONS AND SENSITIVITY TO SMELLS

This means all foods and items, could be your favourite food and cologne/aftershave, which she finds repulsive have to be kept at bay for now. You would also do well to avoid smoking, alcohol and unhealthy food choices that could tempt her.

4. PREGNANCY NAUSEA

You’ve heard about morning sickness here and there, now the reality show is in your home. It’s common in the mornings but could extend beyond. So, for the first four months or thereabout, prepare to witness it a couple of times without showing disgust.

5. YOUR EMOTIONAL SUPPORT

You have to be ready for her to lean on when she worries about her health and the baby’s. Expect she’d freak out a lot. She’d probably tell you about an article she read, a tale from the neighbours’ or some superstition about her state. You’d have to convincingly reassure her.

Also, encourage her to keep all her pre-natal appointments, accompany her when you can, and ask the doctor about your concerns. It portrays you as a keen, concerned husband and father-to-be.

6. PRE-NATAL CLASSES

Boring as it may seem, attending this is your best bet to getting accurate information about pregnancy and childbirth. It could be your only chance to get a clearer perspective on what child birth entails, what your roles will be, meet other men in your league and share experiences, as well as get informed answers to your several questions. You should also try watching a birth on DVD or online to get a picture of what to expect.

7.  THE BIRTH PLAN

Be attentive to her detailed description of how she wants labour and delivery to play out; where she would like to have the baby (at home or hospital), what your roles will be and so on. You’ll be the executor of this plan on the big day because she would be too busy dealing with her pains.

8. THE BUYING

She would expect you not to be just a financier but take active part. Buy and fix the car seat before the baby is born, shop for her hospital kit items and baby things together. It’ll create fun memories and she’ll love you for it.

9. BE AT THE BABY’S BIRTH

Research shows that mothers have a better birth experience if a calm, familiar face is with them during labour. Make that face yours and you’d probably be the first besides the medical attendants to witness the arrival of your bundle of joy. You won’t pass out at the sight of bodily fluids like you presently fear and she’ll appreciate the unwavering support.

10. PREPARE FOR CHANGE OF PLANS

Labour and delivery is unpredictable. Often times, things do not go as planned and the birth plan gets thrown out of the window. You’ll need lots of flexibility and strength to put up a bold front.