For some men, the news that you're going to be a dad can bring about a mix of feelings – some positive, some not so positive. You could feel panic, anxiety, shock or numbness at first. It isn't wrong to feel this way – there might be reasons for these reactions, or you might just need time to adjust.
When men first hear about his wife’s pregnancy, men might have many and even mixed emotions.
Joy and excitement
You might not be able to stop smiling. If you haven’t told others the news, people around you might be wondering what’s making you so happy.
Surprised, unsure or something else?
The pregnancy might have come as a surprise if you weren’t planning to have a baby or your partner got pregnant more quickly than you expected.
If you’re feeling numb, shocked, confused or overwhelmed, the pregnancy might take a while to feel real. It might not even feel real until the baby is born, and you can get more hands on with your baby’s care.
When it’s complicated
If the pregnancy is unplanned, perhaps you’re not feeling good or sure about the pregnancy, or you don’t want the pregnancy at all. This is a very difficult situation, and it’s OK to have strong emotions.
Sometimes a baby is conceived but the relationship has broken down, or there’s no relationship at all. This is a complicated path to parenthood, but it’s still possible to be an involved, loving and responsible parent.
How does a man feels when his wife is pregnant?
