Reported in the Journal of Community and Family Health, a study done by the University of South Florida exploring the connection between a father’s involvement during the pregnancy and the health of the child, especially as a newborn. Turns out that even though the woman is the one physically providing the means to grow this baby, even dad plays a significant role in the baby’s health during pregnancy. 
The study found that babies born where the father wasn’t around during the pregnancy were actually of lower birth weight and more likely to have complications or even not survive. How can this be? Well, actually it makes perfect sense.
Less Stress, More Help
The mother’s stress levels affect the developing baby. This doesn’t mean that every pregnancy problem is caused by stress, but there is evidence that less stress reduces the risk of pregnancy complications. Furthermore, having the dad involved in the pregnancy provides the mother with better care. From him helping with dinner to assisting with her physical care, and everything in between, no doubt having a partner through pregnancy is healthiest for mom and the baby.
Daddy Long-Term
This is also important on a long-term basis. When a dad feels connected with his baby all through the pregnancy his bond with his child will be immediately strong. Especially since men are not physically connected with a baby (except via genes), it’s important for them to be connected in every way that they can otherwise.
A Man’s Purpose as Dad
A man knowing that his involvement in the pregnancy doesn’t just help the mother, but is essential for his baby’s health, can actually help him to feel a greater part of creating this new life. (Or it may scare him, so use this information accordingly.) Most men take on more responsibility willingly when they feel a greater purpose (and some ego stroking, men like credit for everything). When it goes from just “she’s pregnant and responsible for the health of this baby” to “she’s the one pregnant but we’re both responsible for this baby’s healthy development” his sense of duty becomes stronger.
Ask for “Daddy’s” Help
Women naturally have a hard time accepting help. A daddy-to-be wants to help but often doesn’t know how, is feeling overwhelmed with this new responsibility, and isn’t sure how to approach you while you’re hormonal. But if you tell him straight what would help you, most likely he’d be more than happy to help. Don’t be afraid to ask the father of your baby to help you and be involved. True, he will never understand what it’s like to be pregnant, but he doesn’t need to understand in order to be helpful. Not only will his gestures be beneficial to you, but also his involvement in the pregnancy is beneficial to the baby’s health overall.
