Postpartum papas-5 critical considerations for dads during the postpartum period
As a mom, you get nine months to bond with your little bundle of joy in your belly and go through a complete physical and emotional transformation as you move from being a wife/girlfriend to a mom. However, for first-time dads, this transformation happens almost instantaneously. It is, therefore, important to care for our postpartum papas, too!
Men can get postpartum depression, too. Studies have shown that between 5%-25% of men experience postpartum depression symptoms.1 While some symptoms are similar to what is seen in mothers, several of the symptoms in men are external, such as violent behavior, increased alcohol and drug use or impulsive risk-taking behavior
Although men can get postpartum depression, several of them do not know that they can get it. This lack of awareness and societal expectations prevents them from seeking help, which could eventually lead to resentment towards the baby and/or marital conflicts.
The “dadbod” is real—studies have shown that new dads gain weight post-arrival of the baby.2 Several factors can contribute to this—not enough focus on your nutrition and exercise, lack of sleep, anxiety, and various other factors. This weight can have longer and more severe implications over time. While it is easier said than done, it is essential for new dad to not lose sight of their health and well-being during the postpartum period
While more companies (in some countries) are offering paid paternity leave, very few fathers take it. Even among those who do, they only take it for part of the duration. Several reasons contribute to this: fear of professional discrimination, being marginalized/mocked, or missing out on pay raises or promotions. In such cases, having champions at companies that encourage new dads to be present for their spouses, babies, and families is critical.
The non-birthing parent often gets very little attention, making it easy to feel left out. Please know that you are critical—staying involved is essential. Being a birthing coach, skin-to-skin with the newborn, helping with feeding and night awakenings, providing support to your spouse while they breastfeed, diaper changes, etc., are all great ways to bond with the baby while supporting your spouse.
I don’t think anyone is ever sure if they're doing it right with a new baby—it’s a big deal and can be very overwhelming! However, it is also the most rewarding job—remember, dear daddy, your baby needs you now and forever!
SourcesDave, Shreya, et al. “Incidence of Maternal and Paternal Depression in Primary Care A Cohort Study Using a Primary Care Database.” Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med, vol. 164, no. 11, 2010, pp. 1038-1044Lo BK, Kang AW, Haneuse S, , et al. Changes in Fathers' Body Mass Index, Sleep, and Diet From Prebirth to 12 Months Postbirth: Exploring the Moderating Roles of Parenthood Experience and Coparenting Support. Ann Behav Med. 2021 Nov 18;55(12):1211-1219