the father's role in pregnancy

PREGNANCY

The effects of the mother's thoughts and emotions on the unborn child

Stages of pregnancy

The father's role in pregnancy

Lifestyle habits and stress

Single mothers

Planning ahead for working mothers

Diet and nutrition in pregnancy

Things to avoid in pregnancy

Exposure to abuse and violence

Exercise and body treatments

Energy maintenance

Making a home

THE FATHER’S ROLE IN PREGNANCY

In a nutshell, be supportive, informed and involved. The parental relationship and the father's attitude and feelings toward the mother, the pregnancy, and the unborn child have a significant impact on the baby via the mother.[1] It helps to create a bond with the unborn child and between parents, and it is strengthening for both the father and mother when fathers are involved in:

Detail of The Kiss by Gustav Klimt

· following the pregnancy

· the changes in the mother's body

· supporting the mother through the changes

· not taking things too personally if there are mood swings

· following the development of the baby

· being part of pre-natal (antenatal) birthing decisions

· helping to choose items, colours, or equipment for the baby

· talking about the birth

· planning the first weeks, the first year

· planning working arrangements

· discussing child rearing issues

It may be helpful to note that many pregnant women experience intense emotions, and that it can be supportive to recognize these moments, respect them, and not take things too personally.

ARTICLES

Samuels MD - Mother's emotions on unborn baby.htm (& relationship to father)

Winnicott - the mother's contribution to society.htm

Lozowick,Lee - good beginnings.htm

[1] Samuels, Mike, MD, and Nancy Samuels. The Well Baby Book. Summit Books, New York 1991

In the garden by Keith Mallett

If you don't already do it, sharing in household tasks is a good preparation for the first weeks after the birth and life with a child. Also, physical fitness and well being affects psychological well being. So, exercising, quitting smoking, drinking less, and eating well, helps the father be physically and mentally healthy, and is a great way to be supportive and ready for a change in lifestyle.

WELCOME ABOUT PRE-CONCEPTION PREGNANCY PREPARING FOR BIRTH BIRTH THE FIRST MONTHS

CLOTHING AND CARE FOR THE BABY THE FIRST YEAR FROM ONE TO THREE RECOMMENDED READING, LINKS ARTICLES

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Conscious Parenting Guide www.consciousparentingguide.com 2009

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