For Fathers : Navigating the Journey of Pregnancy & Birth
How Expecting Dads Change, Why It Matters, and What Resources Can Help
When we think of pregnancy and childbirth, much of the focus is rightfully on the mother—but research is increasingly highlighting what many already know to be true: fathers are deeply impacted too. Emotionally, mentally, and even hormonally, expecting dads experience real changes. And yet, many feel underprepared and overlooked during this crucial transition into fatherhood.
This June—during Men’s Health Month—let’s shed light on the real journey of expecting fathers, offer supportive resources, and emphasize the powerful role of childbirth education and partner involvement in nurturing strong, healthy families.
Do Expecting Fathers Change? Yes—In More Ways Than One.
Emotional and Mental Changes
Expecting fathers commonly experience a wide range of emotions—joy, anxiety, protectiveness, and fear. These feelings are completely normal and often peak as the due date approaches.
Key Mental Health Statistics:
Up to 10% of new dads experience paternal perinatal depression (Paulson & Bazemore, JAMA, 2010).
Fathers are more likely to experience depression when their partner is depressed, or if they feel unsupported or excluded from the process.
Anxiety and role uncertainty are among the top concerns of expecting dads (Habib, Infant Mental Health Journal, 2012).
Do Fathers Have Hormonal Changes Too?
Surprisingly—yes.
Studies have shown that some expecting fathers experience hormonal shifts that mirror maternal ones, such as:
↓ Testosterone
↑ Prolactin (supports bonding)
↑ Cortisol (linked to alertness and readiness)
↑ Oxytocin (the “love hormone”)
Research: A 2014 study from American Journal of Human Biology found that men’s testosterone levels begin to drop during their partner’s pregnancy, especially in those who are highly involved.
This may serve an evolutionary purpose—promoting caregiving and bonding rather than mating or aggression.
Why Childbirth Education & Partner Involvement Matter
Fathers who are actively involved during pregnancy and birth tend to:
Have stronger bonds with both their partner and baby
Report lower levels of stress and anxiety
Be more likely to engage in caregiving and co-parenting
A 2013 study in BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth found that men who attended childbirth education classes were more confident in supporting labor and had less fear of the birth process.
Classes also provide:
Language and tools to advocate for their partner
Clarity on what to expect in labor and postpartum
Ways to support both emotionally and physically
Resources for Expecting Fathers
Here are a few excellent tools, books, and support systems for dads-to-be:
Books
The Expectant Father by Armin Brott – A month-by-month guide with medical, emotional, and practical insights.
We're Pregnant! The First-Time Dad's Pregnancy Handbook by Adrian Kulp – Straightforward advice and checklists.
Becoming a Father by William Sears, MD – Written by a pediatrician and dad of eight.
Podcasts
The Modern Dads Podcast – Honest conversations on fatherhood, modern masculinity, and parenting.
Dad Central Podcast – Especially great for Canadian dads, but full of universal insights.
Online Communities:
Reddit’s r/daddit – A positive, supportive online space for fathers.
Fatherly.com – Expert-backed articles on parenting, wellness, and relationships.
Postpartum Support International (PSI) – Offers resources for paternal postpartum depression and online support groups.
Local Resources to Explore:
Partner-focused childbirth education classes
Counseling or men’s mental health therapy groups
Fatherhood begins well before the baby arrives. Expecting dads face real, measurable changes—emotionally and physically—and the transition to parenthood is smoother when they are seen, supported, and involved.
Let this season be one of growth for everyone in the family. Whether you’re an expecting dad, a supportive partner, or a birth professional working with fathers, remember: fatherhood is not just a role—it’s a relationship. One worth preparing for, investing in, and celebrating.
Sources:
Paulson, J. F., & Bazemore, S. D. (2010). Prenatal and postpartum depression in fathers. JAMA, 303(19), 1961–1969.
Storey, A. E., et al. (2011). Hormonal correlates of paternal responsiveness. American Journal of Human Biology, 23(4), 472–478.
Habib, C. (2012). Paternal perinatal depression: an overview and guide. Infant Mental Health Journal, 33(1), 74–81.
Johansson, M., et al. (2013). Fathers’ expectations and experiences of childbirth education. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 13(1), 1–10.
