dad-and-pregnancy

From hearing the words, ‘You’re going to be a dad!’ for the first time, to be on the 9 months journey to meet the little one, the feeling is both surreal and unparalleled. But with the utmost happiness, comes many doubts and fears, which should to be quelled. The website will provide you the key advices for the dads to effectively deal with the every stages of pregnancy. Dads during the early pregnancy During the early pregnancy stages, a man goes through many emotions- joy, excitement, fear, doubts, anxiety and much more. It may be a difficult time for the dads to process all these emotions and the feelings about the pregnancy. To make it little easier, they can take their own time and talk with their partner, friends, family members or another expectant father. The men have to maintain a healthy work life balance so that they can be involved with their partner on every little step whether it is antenatal care appointments or helping in picking out baby names and stuffs. They can also spend more time with their partner to ease their worries and fears. They have to become their partner’s support during mood swings morning sickness, by appreciating and listening to her, seeking proper medical support in need. Dad during the middle pregnancy The middle period of the pregnancy or second trimester is relatively stable with lesser risks of miscarriage and subsiding of morning sickness. Expectant parents often tend to overlook themselves in preparing for the new addition and it can put a strain on their mental health and relationships. Now is the good time for the men to build strong relationship with their partner by having heart to heart conversation, providing emotional support, talking about their dreams and hopes for the baby, going out for movies, helping in nursery preparations and much more. Becoming a dad is a big deal! It involves many lives changing events and men can be stressed about the many issues like money, about how to take care of baby. It is important to handle it in better way so that it will not affect the baby’s health and development.  They can cope with it by sharing about fears and doubts with their partner, families and friends, reading parenting books, taking antenatal classes and in extreme cases, seeking professional help. Dad during the late pregnancy During the final months of pregnancy, there can be a lot of feelings involved like impatience, excitement and even nervousness and men should be ready for their role of partner’s birth support and dad. They can take birth classes, ask advice from another dad, making flexible arrangements for their work, so to give more time to the baby, reading relevant books and getting keeping track of both mom and baby’s health through hospital appointments. They can also talk with their baby to reassure their minds.

TIPS FOR HER As women age, there are a number of factors that can make it more difficult to conceive. Fertility factors that change include: Ovarian Reserve – this is the number of functioning follicles remaining in the ovaries. As women get older, they have fewer viable eggs left; In cases of early menopause, the eggs go out much earlier than usual. Menstrual Cycle – As women approach menopause, their menstrual cycles can become irregular and shorter. Endometrium – The endometrium can become thinner and less hospitable to a fertilized egg. Mucus secretions – Vaginal secretions can become less runny and more hostile to sperm. Diseases that affect the reproductive system – some conditions can damage or worsen the reproductive organs over time if not treated properly, including endometriosis, PCOS, and chlamydia. Chronic diseases – Some diseases can affect Fertility TIPS FOR HIM Men can do a lot to improve their chances of conceiving by taking care of their health and lifestyle. Below is a checklist for men trying for a baby. Avoid alcohol It lowers men’s sperm count, even when men only drink small amounts. Sex Have it in the morning as research shows a man’s sperm count is higher at this time so make use of it! Stay calm Men have a higher sperm count when their genitals are kept at a cooler temperature. So stay away from hot tubs, hot showers, and tight-fitting underwear. Smoking Cut it out. Smoking has been shown to decrease both sperm count and sperm motility. Nutrition and Dietary Supplements When men are malnourished or not getting enough of the right foods and nutrients, their sperm count can suffer. Take a dietary supplement containing specific nutrients like zinc for male reproductive health. Workaholic Fatigue can affect a man’s interest in sex, so it’s important to try to find a balance. Toxins Stay away from environmental toxins and dangers. These include pesticides/insecticides, organic solvents, lead, ionizing radiation, heavy metals, and toxic chemicals. Drugs Even in moderate amounts, such as cannabis, it can cause low sperm count, poor sperm speed, and increased sperm abnormalities. Exercise Swap the exercise bike for the treadmill. Repeatedly banging the bar against the bike seat can damage critical arteries and nerves. Mobile phones Research by Hungarian scientists has found that men who leave cell phones in their pockets or on their belts have significantly reduced sperm counts and risk reducing their fertility by up to a third. Sperm motility can also be affected by long calls

Male infertility is a prevalent issue. There are various challenges in the difficult process of conception. Fortunately, having infertility problems does not preclude you from having a kid of your own with your partner. There are procedures and therapies that can raise the likelihood of conception. Male infertility: What is it? A reproductive system issue known as infertility prevents you from becoming pregnant with a female. You, she, or both of you may have infertility concerns if a man and a female engage in recurrent unprotected sex for more than a year and the female doesn’t become pregnant. How frequent is infertility in men? More than five million couples in the United States struggle with infertility, making it a widespread issue. Infertility affects one in every six couples who are trying to conceive. In at least half of all cases of infertility, a male factor is a major or contributing cause. This means that about 10 percent of all males in the United States who are attempting to conceive suffer from infertility. Symptoms The main sign of male infertility is the inability to conceive a child. There may be no other obvious signs or symptoms. However, in some cases, an underlying problem such as a hereditary disease, hormonal imbalance, dilated veins around the testicles, or a condition that blocks the passage of sperm causes signs and symptoms. Signs and symptoms you may notice include: Problems with sexual function – for example, difficulty ejaculating or passing small amounts of fluid, decreased sex drive, or difficulty maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction) Pain, swelling, or lumps in the testicle area Recurrent respiratory infections Inability to smell Abnormal breast growth (gynecomastia) Decreased facial or body hair or other signs of a chromosomal or hormonal abnormality A lower than normal sperm count (less than 15 million sperm per millilitre of semen or a total sperm count of less than 39 million per ejaculation Risk factors Risk factors associated with male infertility include: Smoking tobacco Use of alcohol Use of certain illegal drugs To be overweight Have certain past or present infections Be exposed to toxins Overheating of the testicles After trauma to the testicles After a previous vasectomy or major abdominal or pelvic surgery Have a history of undescended testicles Being born with a fertility disorder or having a blood relative with a fertility disorder Certain medical conditions, including tumours and chronic diseases such as sickle cell anaemia Taking certain medications or medical treatments such as surgery or radiation to treat cancer Complications Complications of male infertility can include: Stress and relationship problems related to the inability to have a child Expensive and complicated reproduction techniques Increased risk of testicular cancer, melanoma, colon cancer and prostate cancer Prevention Male infertility is not always preventable. However, you can try to avoid some known causes of male infertility. For example: Do not smoke. Limit or avoid alcohol. Stay away from illegal drugs. Maintain a healthy weight. Don’t get a vasectomy. Avoid things that cause prolonged heat to the testicles. Reduce stress. Avoid contact with pesticides, heavy metals and other toxins. When to the doctor See a doctor if you have not had a baby after a year of regular, unprotected sex, or sooner if you have any of the following problems: Erection or ejaculation problems, low sex drive, or other sexual function problems Pain, discomfort, a lump, or swelling in the testicle area A history of testicular, prostate, or sexual problems A groin, testicle, penis, or scrotum surgery A partner over 35 years

Are you pregnant and wondering if using sex toys and masturbating are okay? The good news about sex during pregnancy is that, as long as you have your doctor’s OK and it feels good for you, it’s usually safe for your unborn child. You and your unborn child will be safe if you always abide by the fundamental guidelines for pregnancy safety. Here are some rules for using sex toys and masturbating. Is it okay to masturbate when carrying a child? Masturbating during pregnancy, either solo or with your partner is completely safe — and a terrific way to relieve any extra strain you’re feeling unless climax is off-limits due to a high-risk pregnancy or concerns about premature birth. Self-pleasuring and sexual activities can be absolutely safe as long as your doctor has given the all-clear for vaginal penetration and orgasm (which are, rarely, off-limits for a number of reasons). Is it okay to use sex toys like vibrators and dildos while pregnant? Dildos and vibrators are safe sex objects to use when expecting, but always make sure the vagina is clean before using any sex objects. For non-vibrating silicone toys, you can boil them for five to ten minutes or place them in the top rack of the dishwasher; for vibrating toys, you should wash them in warm water with antibacterial soap for about 20 seconds (hard plastic toys should be cleaned according to particular instructions). Don’t worry that your fetus is “watching,” as is the case with all things sex and pregnancy; while uterine spasms during orgasm may soothe the baby, he cannot see what you are doing and most likely won’t remember it.

How to be a good role model for your children A father-child bond is lovely and fortunate. A baby’s life is shaped by his father from the moment of his birth. He consistently imparts wise counsel to his son and leads him in the right path. Over the course of his child’s childhood, he becomes into his friend, mentor, teacher, and best friend. Set a good example There are many things you can do to build a strong bond with your son. Whether we realize it or not, sons primarily learn to be a man by watching their fathers. A father’s influence on his son’s personal development is often invisible, but real nonetheless. By observing how their fathers interact with others, including their partner, young men learn about respect (or disrespect), how men treat others, and how men should deal with conflict and difference. Understanding that a father’s influence on his son is unmatched will help you think more deeply about your relationship with your son and take your responsibility to be a good role model seriously. To spend time together As a father, make sure you give your son time for one-on-one conversations. This time together lets your son know that you care about him, especially when you make time for him in a very busy schedule. Spending time together also shows that they are a priority in your life and that you enjoy being with them. While they are young you can play outside, read books, build with Lego or play a game. When they are older and have clearer interests, try to get involved in things they enjoy as well. Whether your son loves basketball or debates, you can find ways to get involved. Play basketball in the driveway or learn how to be a debate judge when they’re in high school. Some of your best memories will be of the times you spent together doing something you are passionate about. Additionally, there is evidence that a father’s involvement in activities supports his son’s cognitive, language, and socio-emotional development.1 Here are some things fathers and sons can do together. Work on a hobby together. Some fathers enjoy spending time with their sons when they find a common hobby. Whether it’s memorabilia collecting, building model airplanes, gardening or restoring an old car, find something you both love and do it together. Participate in father-son activities. Local communities and schools often organize father-son events like fishing derbies, game nights and more, so be sure to take advantage of these events. The Boy Scouts also offer the opportunity to socialize. Father-son duos can camp, hike, work on merit badges, and spend time together. You might even consider becoming an adult Scouter volunteer. Volunteer for your son’s extracurricular activities. If your son is involved in extracurricular activities, look for opportunities to get involved. For example, you may volunteer to be a timekeeper at a swim meet, a linesman at a volleyball game, an escort at a band competition, or an usher at a school game. No matter your son’s activities and interests, there are always ways to get involved. Do sports together. Although mentioning sports conjures up images of traditional sports like soccer, basketball, and baseball, don’t let that limit you. There are many sports that fathers and sons can do together like running, hiking, rock climbing, skateboarding, volleyball, swimming and even ice hockey. Develop common interests Father-son relationships can feel strained at times, especially when your interests seem to conflict. However, with a little effort, you can usually find something that you both find interesting. These shared interests allow you to discover common ground while maximizing the time you spend together doing something you both enjoy. Finding common interests benefits your father-son relationship in many ways. For example, if you share an interest with someone, you get a glimpse of who that person is.

Are post-sex contractions or cramps more common in the early or late stages of pregnancy? At any point in your pregnancy, you may have cramping or contractions after having sex, but in the second and third trimesters when your uterus is expanding, they usually feel even more painful. Early in your pregnancy, light post-sex cramping may be linked to implantation, which is when the fertilised egg attaches to the uterine wall. An ectopic pregnancy may be suspected if there is severe one-sided cramping, vaginal bleeding, and light-headedness. During the initial part of pregnancy, cramping with heavy bleeding, a backache, and pelvic pressure that feels like the baby is pressing down may be symptoms of miscarriage. Round ligament discomfort, also known as cramping with lower abdominal pain, can begin as early as the 14th week of pregnancy and develop worse as the pregnancy goes on. In the third trimester, Braxton Hicks contractions, which are your body’s method of preparing for labour, can make cramping after sex even worse. Always inform your doctor if your cramps are accompanied by any unsettling symptoms, but hold off on giving up on sex for the time being. Even if you’re not physically capable of having an orgasm, cuddling and romanticism are more crucial than ever. After having sex, may cramps or contractions cause labour? There is no getting around the reality that cramps and contractions will intensify as labour approaches. Your uterus is fully stretched, your bones and ligaments are moving to create place for the delivery of the baby, and it’s possible that your body and mind are preparing for the major event. If you’re still having fun, high five and carry on as normal with your doctor’s approval. Although it’s doubtful that an orgasm may really cause labour, you might want to dial back a little because there are so many bodily changes that are uncomfortable for your groyne area. Just keep in mind that after-orgasm cramps and light contractions are typically nothing to worry about and not a reason to quit having sex. What results in post-sex cramping? There are several potential causes of post-sex cramping during pregnancy. In a typical, low-risk pregnancy, cramping or painful twinges that may feel like contractions during or after orgasm are most likely brought on by increased blood flow to your abdominal region and physiological changes that make your cervix more sensitive. Around conception, implantation may be the source of cramping like menstruation. Rarely, cramps following sex may truly be labour contractions, especially if they are excruciatingly painful and cause you to double over, or if they are accompanied by uncontrollable blood flow. That might indicate a more serious condition, such as early labour, a miscarriage, or an ectopic pregnancy. Call your doctor as soon as possible.

When should you avoid sex during pregnancy? Your midwife or doctor will likely advise you to avoid sex if you’ve had heavy bleeding during this pregnancy. Sex can increase the risk of further bleeding if the placenta is low or there is a collection of blood (hematoma). You are also advised to avoid sex if: Your water have ruptured – this can increase the risk of infection (ask your midwife or doctor if you are unsure if your waters have ruptured) There are any problems with the entrance to your womb (cervix) – you may be at higher risk of preterm labor or miscarriage You are having twins or have previously had early labor and are in the later stages of pregnancy If you or your sexual partner have sex with other people while you are pregnant, it is important that you use a barrier form of birth control, such as a condom. B. A condom to protect you and your baby from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Good and bad sex positions during pregnancy While sex is safe for most couples during pregnancy, it may not be that easy. You’ll probably need to find different positions. This can be a time to explore and experiment together. Having sex with your partner on top can become uncomfortable fairly early in pregnancy, not just because of the bump, but because your breasts might be tender. It can also be uncomfortable if your partner penetrates you too deeply. It may be better to lie on your sides, either facing each other or with your partner behind you. You can also try being on top during sex or being penetrated from behind while on your hands and knees. Use pillows to get comfortable. Can Sex During Pregnancy Cause Miscarriage? Sex during pregnancy does not provoke a miscarriage. Most miscarriages occur because the foetus is not developing normally. What are the best sex positions during pregnancy? As long as you are comfortable, most sex positions during pregnancy are fine. Oral sex is also safe during pregnancy. Experiment as your pregnancy progresses to see what works best. Unleash your creativity as long as you keep mutual pleasure and comfort in mind. Are condoms necessary? A sexually transmitted infection during pregnancy can cause serious health problems for you and your baby. Avoid all forms of sex — vaginal, oral, and anal — if your partner has an active or recently diagnosed sexually transmitted infection. Use a condom if: You are not in a mutually monogamous relationship You decide to have sex with a new partner during pregnancy Are there times when sex should be avoided? Breast stimulation, female orgasm, and certain hormones in semen called prostaglandins can cause uterine contractions. Your doctor may recommend avoiding sex if: You have unexplained vaginal bleeding You lose amniotic fluid Your cervix starts to open prematurely (cervical incompetence) Your placenta partially or completely covers your cervical opening (placenta Previa) You have a history of preterm labor or premature delivery

Every woman’s pregnancy is unique, and this is true for how she feels about sex as well. Some women experience a decline in desire during pregnancy. When they are pregnant, some women feel even closer to and more aroused by their sexuality. As your body changes throughout pregnancy, it’s normal for your sexual urge to fluctuate. As your belly expands, you could experience self-consciousness. Or having larger, fuller breasts might make you feel more seductive. Another benefit is not having to think about birth control. Having sex when pregnant is safe? If you’re experiencing a normal pregnancy, having sex is a natural and typical aspect of it. The baby is covered by your abdomen and the muscular walls of the uterus, so penetration and movement during an intimate encounter won’t harm the child. The fluid of the amniotic sac also cushions your baby. Contraction during an orgasm differs from a contraction during labour. Although some medical professionals advise against having sex in the latter weeks of pregnancy, they do so because they think that substances called prostaglandins in semen can cause contractions. Women who seek to induce labour because they are past due may be an exception. The following is a typical pattern of libido during pregnancy: Very first trimester. Your desire to have sex may be killed by nausea, exhaustion, or breast soreness. Though rest assured that it will return. Second trimesters. Your libido may increase dramatically. In actuality, more blood circulation throughout your body can improve your orgasms. Final trimester. As delivery time draws near, sex could seem awkward. Share your thoughts and strategies with your partner. To discover a position that is both comfortable and stimulating for you, you may need to experiment, especially later in pregnancy. Change what you’re doing if anything doesn’t feel right for either of you, and talk to your OB about any physical issues. After the fourth month of pregnancy, avoid having intercourse while lying flat on your back in the “missionary position.” You can prevent major blood arteries from being constricted by the weight of the developing baby in this way. Position yourself on top of your spouse or rest on your side. Alternately, kneel down with your companion behind you. These postures relieve pressure on your stomach. If uncomfortable intercourse is caused by vaginal dryness, use a lubricant. Make alternate arrangements for intimacy. Hug, kiss, or massage one another. Together, take a bubble bath. Use condoms as usual if you’re not certain of your partner’s sexual history. Sexually transmitted diseases like HIV, herpes, genital warts, or chlamydia, which can have an impact on your unborn child, are not protected from during pregnancy.