Dads And Partners, You Need To Get Fit And Healthy Too

Now that you've uploaded TikTok and shared the exciting news that you're having a baby, what's next for you as a support partner?

Here are some things you can do to become a fit parent.

Don't smoke

If you still smoke or vape, do everything you can to quit.

"We know that second-hand smoke can affect you and your pregnant partner," says Sylvia Nagy, MD, associate professor of clinical obstetrics and gynecology at Weill Cornell Medicine and director of obstetrics at New York-Presbyterian Hospital in Lower Manhattan.

"And even though marijuana is legal, we know there's an association with lower birth weights in babies exposed to marijuana, and we don't have a clear understanding of how exposure to these vapors will affect babies in the long term."

Take care of your health

This is a good time to motivate each other to sleep well, eat healthy food and go outside together.

"If you have high blood pressure, keep it under control," Nagy said. “Get vaccinated, including against influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Sign up for prenatal courses

Although fewer than 50 percent of first-time parents attend prenatal classes, it's actually one of the smartest things you can do to prepare for parenthood, says Elizabeth Lampert, nurse parent education coordinator at the Perinatal Center education. and Breastfeeding at NYU Langone Health.

courses for pregnant women — Prenatal courses are strongly recommended for parents.

"Take courses that will allow you to be emotionally prepared to support your partner during labor," she said.

You will learn about the physiology of childbirth, designed to provide comfort to the partner and relieve any discomfort.

"When you take classes, your confidence increases and your fear decreases," he said. In addition, they "help you and your partner begin to think about being at the center of your decision-making experience."

Support and attend

It seems obvious, but the more you can do to support your partner, the better.

"Go to your prenatal visit with your partner," Nadzi said. “Not only are they useful because they keep you informed, but they also offer a great opportunity to meet your partner's supplier. In this way, you can play an important role in strengthening those supportive relationships that you are trying to develop.'

Postpartum plan

As a support person, you may experience true postpartum depression or anxiety.
"We pay a lot of attention to the postpartum patient, and that's true, but it's also a big life change, adjustment and stress for you," Nagy said. "That's why the support of both parents is important.

So set it up in advance. Make sure you know who will be walking your dog, who will be helping you with the older children, so you can help create the village you need in those emotional days after you bring your baby home.