Pregnancy and Your partner’s reaction to your pregnancy
If you have mixed feelings about being pregnant, chances are your partner does too. He may be thrilled with the prospect of fatherhood. It offers new possibilities in the role of father. He may be exhilarated by the anticipation of sharing a loving relationship with a daughter or son.
On the other hand, he may have doubts and concerns. He may doubt whether he can meet the financial challenges of fatherhood. He may wonder if it’s the right thing to do to bring a child into a world with so many problems. He may fear that a baby will forever change your lifestyle.
These feelings are normal. Few fathers-to-be ever feel fully prepared for what’s ahead. In fact, the reality of your partner’s impending fatherhood probably won’t set in right away. It may not be until about your 24th week of pregnancy, when your partner places his hand on your abdomen and can feel the baby kicking, that it really hits him that he’s going to be a dad.
Encourage your partner to identify his doubts and worries and be honest about what he’s feeling, both the good and the bad. You do the same. Discussing your feelings honestly and openly will strengthen your relationship with your partner and help the two of you start the important work of preparing a home for your baby.
