Just for Dads

NurtureLine 1300 622 243 (1300 MBABIES)
24hr family support helpline

Dad's play an important part in the family unit.

We're here to help the transition into fatherhood a little easier, especially when the times can be very trying.

As a new Dad, you may experience a range of emotions surrounding the birth of your baby. If your baby or partner requires ongoing medical care, you may find the experience overwhelming and may be very different from what you expected.

Entering the neonatal unit can be very different for Dads. Whether following a planned, unexpected or emergency delivery you may be expected to follow baby to the neonatal unit. Having to leave Mum after this life changing event and having a baby whisked away to a neonatal unit can have Dads feeling very torn. As a Dad in the neonatal unit you may be asked to consent to clinical procedures and feel a lot of pressure in the immediate hours after birth. Remember to ask questions of your baby’s health care team. They are there to guide you and help you navigate this new world. Ask for regular updates on how Mum is doing if she is unable to be there following the birth. Ask what you can do to be included in babys care.

It may feel like a lot of focus is on Mum in the first few days and you may feel lost and unsure how to help. Remember, you are a very important part of your babys life and in the neonatal unit there are many things Dads can do to be included.

There are many good Dad things to do in the neonatal unit with your baby, it may feel scary at first but the more you do it the more confident you will become. Your babys health care team are there to educate you and help you become a pro in no time!

Important things Dads can do: