Becoming a Father: How to Help During the Pregnancy

Becoming a Father:

How to Help During The Pregnancy

Intro	Rights & Responsibilities
How to Help During The Pregnancy	Providing for Your Child
Your Role as a Father	Parenting Resources

How can I help during the pregnancy?

Communicate. Talk with the future mother of you child her about her feelings and fears – she may be having some of the same thoughts as you. Give her a chance to let you know how she’s feeling and spend time listening to what she has to say.
Be sensitive to her physical condition and emotional needs by understanding thay she may be moody or physically uncomfortable at times.
Make it clear that you are in this together. Let her know that you want to be as involved in the pregnancy as possible. If she has not already done so, go with her to talk to her parents. It may also be helpful for you to go with her to her medical appointments.
Attend childbirth and parenting classes.
Do some reading about parenting to help you prepare. (See the resources section)
Plan Ahead. Think about the financial needs of raising a child and start saving money. Consider finding a part time job to help pay for child care expenses. Babies and children need clothing, food, and equipment such as a crib and stroller. When they are older they will have more expenses. Also, think about your career goals and whether or not you have to stay in school to achieve them.

Written by the YMH Staff at Children's Hospital Boston

Updated: 6/28/2010

Related Information:

Looking for other health info? Check our A-to-Z Index.