Don’t freak out, because technically you are a dad NOW! Your partner is providing a safe and healthy environment for your baby to grow and in order for her to do that you need to be supportive and keep mom happy. This is your first duty as a dad. Here are a few dad-to-dad tips.
Get into the zone of being a dad now — it‘s a nine month head start to fatherhood. You may feel like running away but don’t. Start learning to bond with your baby now.
Understand that she is thinking about this little thing in her belly as a real person (with fingers toes and a name) already. She thinks about it most of the day, especially after she starts feeling it move (beginning around 4-5 months of pregnancy).
Visit the antenatal clinic together as soon as possible. If you and your partner have not tested for HIV, this is a good time to test together. If you and your partner are HIV positive your baby can be born negative. By taking a short course of antiretroviral drugs during pregnancy and making an informed decision about safe feeding options for your baby, your baby can be born HIV negative.
IF YOU HAVE Medical Aid – See what options are covered. If you do not have medical Aid, see what options you can access.
Think about when the right time will be to tell your employer that you‘ll need some time off. Legally you are entitled to three days paternity leave when your baby is born.
