First 12 Months · Pregnancy · 2nd trimester

The 2nd Trimester of Pregnancy for Dads

All kinds of dads. Fathers' Forum welcomes gay fathers, husbands parenting together, single dads, adoptive and foster dads, and every family where men are raising children. Bruce's original book often described heterosexual couples; these pages are updated for today's families — including how gender, masculinity, and parenting roles are changing. Swap in your own names and situation wherever the text mentions a partner's pregnancy or birth.

In the second trimester you may hear your baby's heartbeat or see them on ultrasound — a heightened sense that this is really happening.

We often value men's financial contributions more than emotional ones; money worries can become the focus for expectant fathers — sometimes the only socially acceptable way men are allowed to show concern.

Discuss finances with your partner but keep perspective. Tolerance for uncertainty is useful in pregnancy and parenthood.

Many expectant dads report changes in sexuality with their partners. A pregnant partner's hormones affect desire, energy, and comfort differently for each person.

Routines around meals, leisure, and chores may shift. You may feel disappointed that the partner you knew seems different. Every couple — including husbands together awaiting a child through surrogacy — experiences these changes differently. Open communication now helps you move toward birth or placement in a supportive relationship.

For your partner

  • Take on more chores around your home.
  • Let your partner know they are going to be a great parent.
  • Make it clear you can talk about both positives and negatives about this stage.

For yourself

  • Talk with two other new fathers about how they are feeling.
  • If possible, ask your father what it was like when you were born.
  • Walk with a friend who will listen to how you feel about becoming a dad.

From Becoming a Dad: How Fatherhood Changes Men by Bruce Linton, Ph.D., MFT — practical tips from dads in Fathers' Forum groups.

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