Partners

A non-birthing parent is a parent who does not physically give birth to their child.

As a father, non-birthing parent or someone else supporting a new mum / birthing parent with their brand new baby you might wonder how you can support your partner, family or friend?

There’s lot of ways that you can be involved!

❤️ Skin to skin is not just for mums / birthing parents, the baby will find your chest very warm and cosy too. Skin to skin is for anyone that will play a significant role in the baby’s life, not just in the early days after birth but beyond too. 

❤️ Changing nappies, winding, bathing, singing, cuddling, talking, playing and lots of eye contact with baby are all things that you can do that will help to build a strong relationship with the new baby. 

❤️ Taking baby out for a walk in a carrier or pram is a lovely way to spend time with the baby.

You can also be involved and help by:

❤️ taking as much time off work as possible.

❤️ being around to take over some household chores – take any offer of help as it will allow you to spend time with your family.

❤️ allowing your partner to use their maternal / parental instincts.

❤️ fielding visitors.

❤️ being involved when the midwife/health visitor/ family nurse visits.

❤️ making sure you have enough food and stay hydrated.

Becoming a father or non-birthing parent is an amazing experience which can also bring lots of changes and challenges. The first year of your child’s life can be a time of great happiness and joy but also comes with changing emotions, adaptations to your identity with such a big adjustment for both you and your partner. Babies do not come with instruction manuals, and it takes a while to get to know yours and for your family to adapt. It can be hard to balance caring for your baby, yourself and your partner, and your new role may feel overwhelming at times. You may have witnessed your partner having a traumatic pregnancy and/or labour; be struggling with your emotions and/or the bond with your infant. There is support out there for all non-birthing parents be it Fathers, LGBTQ+ families, adoption or Surrogacy – please refer to the resources listed here. You can also reach out and talk to your GP or family Health Visitor who may be able to refer you to the Maternity and Neonatal Psychological Interventions (MNPI) team for therapeutic support if appropriate.