A prospective study on the course of sleep disturbances in first‐time fathers during the transition to parenthood

Abstract

Introduction: This study examined sleep disturbances in first-time fathers from the third trimester of their partner's pregnancy to 2 months postpartum to determine prevalence, incidence, and persistence of sleep disturbances and identify associated determinants. Methods: Men expecting their first child were recruited from local prenatal classes and university-affiliated obstetric clinics. During their partner's third trimester of pregnancy and 2 months postpartum, 459 men completed standardized online self-report questionnaires measuring sociodemographics, lifestyle, and psychosocial variables and sleep quality. Results: Disturbed sleep (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI] global score >5) increased from 29.6% during the third trimester to 44.7% at 2 months postpartum. The incidence of poor sleep at 2 months postpartum was 33.7%. Among men with disturbed sleep at the antenatal assessment, 70.6% continued to have sleep disturbances at 2 months postpartum. An increase in depressive symptoms and higher parenting stress was independently associated with onset and persistence of disturbed sleep at 2 months postpartum. Conclusions: Sleep is compromised in expectant and new fathers. Strategies aimed at improving sleep, depressed mood, and managing the challenges of parenting may be important components to include in prenatal interventions aimed at enhancing the transition to parenthood and infant development.

Tired, angry, and unhappy with us: Poor sleep quality predicts increased anger and worsened perceptions of relationship quality

“…Given the importance of relationship quality perceptions for both relational outcomes and general well-being (e.g., Finkel et al, 2017), understanding the influences of relationship quality and targeting intervention strategies addressing these is crucial. There are periods in a relationship where detriments to sleep quality are more likely, such as during the transition into parenthood (Da Costa et al, 2021), retirement (Alhainen et al, 2020), menopause (Polo-Kantola, 2007), or periods of increased stress (Sun Han et al, 2012). During these times when poor sleep is often unavoidable, targeting marital interventions to address anger awareness and emotional regulation may be useful (e.g., Finkel et al, 2013; Gross & Jazaieri, 2014).…”

Sleep patterns and psychosocial health of parents of preterm and full-born infants: a prospective, comparative, longitudinal feasibility study

“…Sleep affects physical and mental health outcomes [ 1 , 2 ]. Restorative sleep is important for physical, cognitive, and psychological well-being [ 3 ].…”

Parent ADHD Is Associated With Greater Parenting Distress in the First Year Postpartum

“…New parents experience frequent sleep disruptions due to nighttime care for their infant. Sleep changes across the first postpartum year can have a negative impact on mood, relationships, and quality of life (Da Costa et al, 2021; Medina et al, 2009; Simard et al, 2021). Studies of parents of infants and toddlers have also identified that the quality of the child’s sleep predicts parent’s sleep quality (Meltzer & Mindell, 2007; Sinai & Tikotzky, 2012).…”