10 Pre-Birth Tips For New Fathers
First congratulations on becoming a (new) dad.
The day is coming when you’ll be in the delivery room. Since proper planning prevents poor performance, it is in your best interest to be ready. Winging-it might not be a good idea. So let me save you the trauma by sharing a few tips on how to prepare.
Before my son’s birth, I tried to prepare. I binged-watched a few Youtube videos and skimmed through blog articles but neither seemed to have worked. They all failed to share what men should be doing to help their partner prepare. Suffice to say, I ended up winging it. The experience was a culture shock and I’m still stunned at the level of work required. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your d-day (delivery day).
1. Cancel All Major Appointments Close To Delivery Date
Drop/trim your schedule. Cancelling most if not all your appointments or business meetings close to the delivery date is critical.
No one can accurately predict the delivery date, not even your OB-GYN. By having a free schedule sends a clear message regarding your priorities.
2. Work From Home If Possible Or Take A Mini-Vacation
I know most jobs don’t provide the flexibility of working from remote areas such as your home (WFH). But if you’re a remote sales agent, customer care agent or Information Technology expert, you should be able to capitalize on this opportunity.
Paternity leave is an option, but that is after the child is born. I’m sure there are things you need to do before that day.
3. Maintain A Healthy Diet
If you can’t take care of yourself then how will you cope during periods of high demand? You need to be on your A-game as your spouse is depending on you to be her eyes, hears and legs.
For starters, reducing your consumption of food with high cholesterol and excessive salt is a great start. This also includes fast food.
Instead, eat more fruits and vegetables will help you unlock the hidden potential-energy. Try and drink more water instead of sugary drinks. You’d be surprised how a minor shift in diet impacts your stamina.
4. Coordinate & Communicate With Family Members
A gentle reminder that communication is key. Let’s face it, most of us (men) fail to effectively communicate and this could impact our relationships.
At this juncture, you are required to accurately communicate without the need for conflict or confusion. Here is a video to help you get started. Doing this correctly could help you rally the troops; especially with the never-ending list of TODOs.
If you’re fortunate enough to have the support of your family members, assigning tasks can help reduce the burden ie. more time to focus on your spouse and unborn child.
Tip: Keep a few family members & the OB-GYN contact details on speed dial.
5. Exercise When Possible
You don’t have to lift heavy dumbells or do pushups. By simply walking a few times per week can do wonders. Could even take our spouse with you for a walk. Remember to contact your OB-GYN before you decide to do any form of exercise.
We did this during my wife’s pregnancy and it helped.
6. Rest, Rest Rest…
If you’re not resting, then you’ll be grumpy. When you’re grumpy your spouse will absorb your grumpy energy. Get the picture?
This is something you should try your best to avoid. Optimize for this outcome by organising our schedule in like manner. Example, keep your nights free of any tedious tasks is a good start.
You won’t get any rest when the baby arrives so enjoy it while it lasts — LOL.
7. Ask Questions
Drop the pride and ask the physician — especially the OBGYN — every single question you can think of. It might help unmask a few misconceptions you may have. Here are a few questions I’d recommend:
- Is there anything I can do to help during this process?
- What should I avoid?
- How do I keep my spouse and unborn child safe?
- What the delivery process will look like?
- What is the ideal diet for her?
There is a class for pregnant moms. Join your spouse in a few sessions — that way you can ask related questions.
8. Pack Your Bags Early
I didn’t do this and it wasn’t fun. Packing the bags two months in advance will let you have at least one less thing to think about. You don’t know the exact delivery date, so why not prepare? Please pack at least two bags. One for yourself and the other for your spouse.
9. Take Food & Water
During labour, your spouse might not be allowed to eat, but you can & should. Having a few sandwiches can prevent you from leaving the hospital to get food.
Can you imagine having an empty stomach while your partner is in labour? It could last for hours and you’ll be called upon as the primary support system. Hospitals provide sandwich but it is not guaranteed — especially during the late/early hours of the day.
10. Ensure Your Vehicle Is Ready
Last but not least. If you’re anything like me, then you’ll be making multiple trips — to and from the hospital. Every minute counts and having a fully functioning vehicle is a necessity. You don’t want to get caught up with car troubles. At least ensure you have a full tank of gas and air-filled tires.
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it’s a start. Is there anything I’m missing? Feel free to comment.
Once again, good luck and congratulations to all the men who are on this journey.
