The Expectant Father

The Expectant Father: The Ultimate Guide for Dads-to-Be (5th edition)

This thoroughly updated and revised parenting classic remains the most informative and reassuring book for expectant fathers everywhere. In addition to sharing the wisdom of the ages, Armin A. Brott, Mr. Dad, presents new insight into the emotional, financial, and physical—yes, physical—effects of impending parenthood on men. Thanks to this handy reference, moms-to-be will know their partner understands and supports them during this anxious and exciting time, and that he has all the tools he needs to be a fantastic, hands-on dad.This information-packed, month-by-month guide incorporates the expertise of top practitioners in their fields, from obstetricians and birth-class instructors to psychologists and sociologists. It also draws from Brott’s own experience as a father of three and from the real-world experiences of the thousands of dads he’s interviewed.

With the humor of New Yorker cartoons and Brott’s gentle approach, The Expectant Father serves as a friendly and readable companion for dads-to-be seeking confidence, guidance, and joy! What’s new in this edition of The Expectant Father?

• The latest health and safety info

• How technology is changing fatherhood

• How men’s brains change by being involved during pregnancy

• Society’s shifting expectations for dads

• The amazing effects on children when fathers are active partners before birth

• How pre-birth participation makes dads more likely to be active parents post-birth

• Preconception issues

• Overcoming infertility

• Understanding and using assisted reproductive technologies

There’s also a fully updated resources section and new research on the timeless questions that haven’t changed much over the years, such as:

• Am I really ready to be a dad?

• How are we going to afford this?

• How do I balance work and family?

• Will I be able to handle labor and delivery while being there for my partner? What if something goes wrong?

• How will this affect my relationship with my partner?

• Will we ever have sex again?

• What am I supposed to do with a new baby?

• How can I be a good dad?

• Will I ever see my friends again or have any time to myself?

This new edition features the latest research on many topics from preconception issues, overcoming infertility, and information addressing assisted reproductive technologies to prenatal communication and education. An update of the childbirth section reflects the fact that about 80 percent of all deliveries are done with epidurals and provides new information on c-sections. The finances and insurance sections have been completely overhauled. There is new information on work and family matters, tons of tips for young dads, advice for stepfathers (first child for dad, second or more for mom), a concise section about military fathers, and a revised resources chapter and bibliography.