The First-Time Fathers Study: A Prospective Study of the Mental Health and Wellbeing of Men during the Transition to Parenthood

Abstract

Pregnancy, rather than the postnatal period, would appear to be the most stressful period for men undergoing the transition to parenthood. The results suggest that the most important changes occur relatively early in pregnancy. Thereafter, lack of change (rather than change) is the most noteworthy feature. These men appeared to be ill-prepared for the impact of parenthood on their lives, especially in terms of the sexual relationship. Further research to determine the timing and trigger of stress in pregnancy is recommended.

Fathers’ experiences after having a child: sexuality becomes tailored according to circumstances

“…These findings were supported by similar results of diminished sexual activities after having children (Condon et al, 2004;St John et al, 2004;Von Sydow et al, 1999Williamson et al, 2008). The men focused other ways of expressing sexuality and prioritized showing love, affection and consideration.…”

“…Many studies present findings about men experiencing a deterioration of satisfaction in their relationship after becoming parents (Barclay and Lupton, 1999;Buist et al, 2003;Byrd, 1998;Condon et al, 2004;Dalgas-Pelis, 1993). The stress produced in relation to fatherhood can reduce the relationship satisfaction and generate ongoing problems (Buist et al, 2003) as well as lessen expressed intimacy (Barclay and Lupton, 1999).…”

“…The meta-content analysis stated a need for further studies concerning postpartum sexuality and spurred the upcoming of future research. Current studies are mainly concentrating on sexual functioning (Condon et al, 2004;Gungor et al, 2008;Knauth, 2000;Pastore et al, 2007) or sexual activity and satisfaction (Byrd, 1998;Knauth, 2000;Von Sydow, 2001, 2002Williamson et al, 2008) and mostly included both partners. The study by Pastore et al (2007) investigated postpartum sexuality concerns 4-monts and 12 months postpartum among first-time parents.…”

“…Twelve months postpartum, the most likely topic left unresolved reflected a mismatched desire, where the sexual needs of the fathers succeeded their partners'. Other studies illustrated dissatisfaction with their sexual relationship (Knauth, 2000) and the men experiencing an overwhelming decline in sexual function that persisted throughout the first year (Condon et al, 2004). How well the relationship and intimacy worked could be linked to the stability and functioning of the relationship prior to having children (Lewis, 1988).…”

Exploring Adolescence and Parenthood: A Transitional Life Stage and Abrupt Life Change

“…The transition to parenthood represents a profound life change in adapting to the parental role especially for first time parents [37][38][39]. This transition includes adaptations linked with cognitive, motor and social skills [37].…”