Adam’s Story

“It’s time to push,” the midwife said, her voice calm but firm. The room buzzed with urgency and anticipation. The air was thick with emotion - a mix of hope, anxiety, and the electric energy that accompanies life-altering moments. Adam felt as if he were standing on the edge of a cliff, his heart pounding so loudly he wondered if everyone else could hear it.

Adam worked in real estate, a profession that thrived on his sharp wit and natural ability to connect with people. Always ready with a clever line, he was the guy who could close a deal with nothing but charm and a handshake. But in this moment, words failed him. Standing in the delivery room, handheld video camera in one trembling hand and Sarah’s fingers crushing the other, he felt a surge of awe and vulnerability unlike anything he’d ever experienced. Witnessing the birth of his child, he realised the stakes were infinitely higher than any deal he’d ever negotiated.

Earlier, he and Sarah had decided they wanted to capture the magic of the day, from the first contraction to the first cuddle. The camera was meant to be a silent observer of their little miracle, but Adam quickly learned that recording the moment didn’t make him an impartial bystander. It was impossible not to be swept away by the magnitude of it all.

Sarah let out a deep, primal groan, her flushed face reflecting the sheer intensity of the moment. Her grip on Adam’s hand was unrelenting, leaving him wincing but determined to hold on. Beads of sweat rolled down her temple, her focus unwavering despite the obvious strain. Adam’s gaze wandered briefly to the midwife, who calmly arranged an array of gleaming instruments on a tray that wouldn’t have looked out of place in a hardware store. “Is she about to rewire a fuse box or deliver a baby?” Adam thought to himself.  

As the midwife offered encouraging words to Sarah, Adam reflexively pointed the camera at her face, her strength practically radiating through the lens. He had no words—dry throat, spinning mind—but he tightened his grip on her hand, hoping the gesture spoke the volumes he couldn’t articulate.

Time seemed to stretch and compress in bizarre ways. Seconds felt like hours as Sarah pushed through each contraction, her body working tirelessly to bring their child into the world. Adam fumbled with the camera as a wave of raw emotion overtook him. He wasn’t just documenting this; he was living it, heart and soul.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the midwife’s voice broke through the tension. “One more push, Sarah. You’re almost there.”

Summoning every ounce of strength she had left, Sarah bore down one last time. Adam held his breath, his entire body taut with anticipation. Then, in an instant, a sound filled the room—the unmistakable, piercing cry of a newborn. Their baby girl had arrived.

Adam stared in disbelief as the midwife gently placed the tiny, squirming bundle into Sarah’s arms, resting on her bare chest. Tears blurred his vision, and for a moment, the chaos of the room faded into the background. This was it. The moment they had waited for. The moment he had simultaneously been anxious about and longed for.

Through the lens of the camera, Adam could see Sarah’s tear-streaked smile as she cradled their daughter. The pressure to say something profound weighed heavily on him. He opened his mouth, hoping to summon the perfect words, something poetic or deeply meaningful. But his brain, overwhelmed by the flood of emotions and shock betrayed him.

“Babe,” he blurted out, his voice cracking, “your box is fucked!”

The room fell into an awkward silence as both Sarah and the midwife stared at Adam in disbelief. He froze, realising the comment had been captured in full HD. Just as the tension threatened to linger, the sharp cry of their wee baby girl filled the air, breaking the silence and saving Adam from further embarrassment.

As the nurse wrapped their newborn in a soft blanket and handed her to Adam, he put the camera down for the first time. Feeling the weight of his daughter in his arms, her tiny fingers curling instinctively around his, nothing else mattered. Not his blunder, not the chaos - just the overwhelming love and gratitude for the little life that had just entered the world.

Adam’s words, while hilariously inappropriate, were a raw expression of the shock and awe of the moment. The camera might have recorded every cringe-worthy detail, but the memory of that day would be etched in their hearts forever. His blunder became the perfect encapsulation of fatherhood: messy, imperfect, but full of love.

Fatherhood wasn’t something Adam - or many men for that matter, felt completely prepared for.  Even with his charm and confidence honed from years in sales, Adam was caught off guard by the whirlwind of emotions that came with impending parenthood: excitement, fear, and an overwhelming sense of responsibility. His delivery room experience, from fumbling through moments of humor to being struck speechless by the enormity of it all, mirrored the messy yet beautiful journey so many dads face.

When I first found out we were expecting, I had my own share of doubts and questions. Googling everything under the sun left me drowning in advice that felt either too clinical or unrelatable and often feeling like it was an after thought. I wanted something real - a guide that didn’t sugarcoat the challenges but also celebrated the humour and heart of becoming a dad.

This guide was born out of that frustration and a desire to fill the gap for dads-to-be. It’s a resource that’s practical, honest, and yes, sometimes funny. It’s a collection of stories, insights, and tips from my own experiences and from other dads, designed to help you feel more confident, more connected to your partner, and ready to embrace the chaos and joy of the adventure ahead.

Welcome to the Deep End, Mate.

She peed on a stick, stared at you with wide eyes, and now - ready or not...you’re about to become a dad.

If your brain’s been doing backflips between “This is amazing!” and “Holy sh*t, what do I even do now?”  Congratulations. You’re completely normal.

The problem?
Most pregnancy advice either talks at men (like we’re idiots) or forgets we even exist.

This guide is different.
It’s for men, by men - practical, no-fluff advice to help you:

• Support your partner (without feeling useless)

• Stay sane (even when the hormones hit like a hurricane)

• Actually enjoy the ride into fatherhood

Let’s crack into it.

What to Expect (From Her and Yourself)

Emotional Rollercoasters Ahead

Pregnancy is an emotional theme park — and not just for her.

She’s dealing with massive hormonal swings, physical changes, and a growing human using her bladder as a trampoline.
You? You might be feeling:

• Anxious about the unknown

• Disconnected because you're not physically carrying the baby

• Flat-out terrified about being “good enough” as a dad

Dad Tip:
Her emotions might seem random. They’re not. They’re real, powerful, and overwhelming — for both of you.
Stay steady. Don’t take it personally.

Lifestyle Shake-Up

Your late-night gaming sessions, impromptu pub crawls, and three-hour gym workouts?
Yeah... not so much anymore.

Life starts shifting now - and that's a good thing.  Lean into the change early.  You're preparing to be responsible for a tiny, screaming, adorable overlord soon.

Your Role as a Supportive Partner

Show Up

• Be there for the key appointments (scans, big checkups, the “find out the sex” ultrasound if you’re doing that).

• Be there when she’s having a rough day.

• Be there even when you feel awkward or helpless.

Presence > Perfection.

Listen, Don’t Fix

Sometimes she just needs to vent.
Not a solution.
Not a motivational speech.
Just a dude with two ears and zero judgement.

Dad Tip:
If you're unsure what to do, ask:

"Do you want me to help fix it, or just listen?"

Nine times out of ten? It's "just listen."

Practical Stuff That Actually Helps

• Cook the dinner.

• Clean the kitchen.

• Assemble the ridiculously complicated pram (without rage-quitting halfway through).

• Stock the house with snacks that won’t get you stabbed (take cravings seriously, bro).

Must-Do Milestones

Appointments You Shouldn’t Miss

• The first scan (this one hits different)

• The anatomy scan (around 20 weeks  seeing all the little bones forming? Magic.)

• Any major specialist appointments

Show her you’re in this together.  Nothing screams “I care” like showing up when it matters.

First Kicks & Magic Moments

Feeling the baby kick for the first time might seem small...
But mate, it'll wreck you (in the best possible way).

• Be present.
• Be excited.
• Be the guy who remembers these moments later.

Hospital Bag Prep

No, it’s not just about her bag.

Your Dad Bag Essentials:

• Snacks (labour can take ages)

• Phone charger

• Change of clothes

• Deodorant (trust me)

• Spare cash for vending machines

• List of important numbers (don't rely just on your phone)

Self-Care for Dads-to-Be

Mental Health Matters

You are allowed to feel overwhelmed. You are allowed to be scared.
Just don't bottle it all up.

• Talk to someone. A mate can help defrag...but dont be afraid to reach out for a profeshional shoulder to lean on if you are really strugling. 
• Move your body. Regular exercise will put all the stress hormones to work...and help you feel better, more clear-headded. So carve out the time - just be mindful that you need to train smarter not harder or longer. 
• Get decent sleep when you can (trust me - future you will thank you).

Stay Active

You don’t need to be training like you’re prepping for a triathlon.
But regular movement will keep your head clear, your stress levels down, and your body ready for the "chase a toddler around the house"
stage.

Small Pleasures = Big Wins

Don’t underestimate little rituals:

• Morning coffee

• 10 minutes of silence

• Quick workouts

• Laughing at stupid memes (but not for bloody hours - remember to put the phone down...doom scrolling is no joke) 

Pregnancy is a marathon, not a sprint. Protect your energy.

When Sh*t Gets Real

Early Labour Panic

Spoiler:
It might not be like the movies where her waters break and you race to the hospital in a panic.

Early labour can drag on for hours (even days).
Be calm. Be ready. Bring snacks.

Complications and Curveballs

Sometimes pregnancies don’t go by the book.

• Miscarriages happen.

• NICU stays happen.

• Emergency C-sections happen.

You can’t control it all.
But you can control how you show up - calm, steady, and ready to back your partner no matter what.

You’ve Got This, Mate

You’re going to stuff up sometimes.
You’ll forget an appointment, say the wrong thing, fall asleep during a birthing class video.

It’s okay.

Being a good dad and partner isn't about being perfect.
It’s about:

• Showing up
• Learning as you go
• Sticking around through the hard bits

Biggest tip I can give you:

Parenting doesn’t start when the baby arrives. It starts now - with the small, daily moments of stepping up. Prior, preparation prevents piss poor performance!

And if you have made it this far...you’re already doing better than you think.

Want More?

If you want even more practical tools (without digging through Google rabbit holes at 2am) —
👉 [Grab your FREE Dad-to-Be Survival Checklist here] - and start feeling ready, not just nervous.

Here is your check-list! 

You’ve officially unlocked one of the most practical tools you’ll ever get your hands on as a soon-to-be dad: the Dad-to-Be Survival Checklist.

And no, it’s not one of those fluffy, generic lists with “buy flowers” and “try to be helpful.”
This one’s been battle-tested. Built from real experience. Written by a bloke who’s been elbow-deep in birth plans, hormonal landmines, and midnight Macca’s runs for pickle cravings.

What’s Inside:

• A week-by-week(ish) breakdown from “Oh sht, it’s happening”* to “You’re officially a dad”

• Quick, no-nonsense tasks to keep you on track, from tracking appointments to assembling cots

• Real-world reminders on how to support your partner (without turning into a try-hard guru)

• Mental health check-ins, reality checks, and the ultimate goal: keep calm and show up like a legend

It’s written in your language. No pink sparkles, no condescending advice - just stuff that makes sense and actually helps.

👉Dad-To-Be Survival Checklist (Download)

Save it. Print it. Stick it to your fridge, your shed wall, or the back of the toilet door. Wherever you’ll see it and use it.
Tick stuff off. Scribble notes. Show your partner you’re not just here for the “fun part” - you’re all in.

Why It Matters

Most first-time dads don’t screw it up because they don’t care.
They fumble along because no one told them what the hell to do.

This checklist is your first tool to change that.
It doesn’t fix everything - but it does give you clarity, confidence, and a solid plan to stay engaged from bump to baby. 

Want More Like This?

This checklist is just the tip of the iceberg. Inside the full Pregnant Men membership, we take it even further:

• Trimester deep-dives and dad hacks

• Expert insights to different phases

• Relationship tools, real stories, and member-only perks

• The mobile app, exclusive merch, early-bird access and more

You’re here early, which means you’ll be first to know when it opens - and you’ll get access at the founding member price. Win.

What to Do Next:

✅ Download the checklist
✅ Pick one thing from your current week and action it
✅ Check out Adam’s Story next - it’s a real look at what it feels like to be in the thick of it. 

You’ve got this. And now you’ve got a plan.
Even though you are along for the ride - at least now you have an idea of some of the upcomeing twists and turns. 

She’s Pregnant - Now What?

Last Updated on May 2025.

Alright, mate. Deep breath.

You just heard the words: “I’m pregnant.” Maybe it came with a look of panic, a positive pee stick, or a casual text that rocked your world. However it landed - welcome to the moment.

If you're here after Googling “My girlfriend is pregnant - what do I do?”, you're not alone. This post is your lifeline. Whether you’re excited, terrified, or somewhere in between, this is your guide to navigating those first whirlwind days.

And no - we’re not here to throw blame. This isn’t “you got her pregnant, now fix it.” This is: You’re here now. Let’s focus on what’s next.

The First 72 Hours: Panic, Google, Avoid, Repeat

Let’s call it what it is: chaos. Those first few days post-pregnancy revelation feel like a bad dream mixed with adrenaline and confusion.

You might experience:

• Denial - “Nah, this isn’t real.”

• Panic - “What the hell do I do now?”

• Google Overload - “Can a pregnancy test be wrong? How long is a trimester? What even is a trimester?”

• Avoidance - Diving into work, TikTok, gym sessions, or anything but the situation.

That’s normal. You're not broken. You’re in a bit of shock and these actions in the early stages are often a way to process the news. 

But here’s the truth bomb: You can’t live in limbo forever. It’s time to start acting like a dad - even if you don’t feel like one yet.

Step 1: Confirm the Pregnancy and Be There

Pregnancy tests are usually spot on (many manufacturers claiming an accuracy of 99% when used correctly) - but it’s worth confirming things with a doctor or midwife. Offer to go with her. Yes, even if it’s awkward.

Here’s how to show up early on:

• Be present. You don’t need a speech. Just be there.

• Ask how she feels. And actually listen. This isn’t just about the baby - this is big for her too.

• Don’t jump into decision mode. Give each other space to feel and process.

• Stay grounded. If you’re in a complicated relationship, this news might make things messier. Tread gently. Talk openly.

Real talk: This is her body, her experience - but your presence can make a huge difference. You don’t need to lead, just support, and be pro-active where you can. 

Step 2: Make a Game Plan (Even If It’s Half-Baked)

Nobody expects you to suddenly become a parenting guru with a detailed roadmap. But having some kind of plan helps anchor your chaos.

Your Dad-to-Be Starter List:

• 💸 Money Talk – Yep, it’s uncomfortable. But pregnancy, leave from work and baby stuff ain’t cheap. Time to look at your finances.

• 🏡 Where You’ll Live - Still in that bachelor pad with a beanbag and the tv on beer crates? May need a rethink.

• 👔 Job Flexibility - Can you be available for appointments or emotional support without screwing your career?

• 🩺 Book Your Own GP Visit - Check your mental and physical health. You matter too, mate. GP's can help guide you to the right support services, so its worth having a chat. 

• 🖼 First Scan - Go if you can (usually around week 12). That grainy blob on the screen? It’s going to change your whole perspective.

You don’t need to fix everything this week. But taking action - even clumsy action, shows her (and yourself) that you’re in.

Pro Dad Tip: Don’t Say “We’re Pregnant” Unless She Wants You To.

It sounds sweet, but it would pay to have a conversaion about it, and see how she feels about you using that phrase. 

She’s the one with morning sickness, wild hormones, and a human growing inside her ribcage. You’re part of this journey, but not carrying it (literally).

Try saying:

• “We’re expecting.”

• “She’s pregnant—I’m getting ready to be a dad.”

• “I’m here to support her through this.”

Support ≠ centre stage. Let her lead the narrative.  On the flip side...she might not give a shit.  And you can even let the cashier know at startbucks "we're pregnant" as you order your single shot flat whites. 

Real Talk: The Mental Load Is Real

Let’s not sugar-coat it - those first few weeks after finding out you’re going to be a dad can feel like your brain’s been thrown in a blender. There’s excitement, sure. But also panic, pressure, and about 47 versions of “WTF now?”

Common Thoughts Dads Have Early On:

• “Am I even ready for this?”

• “What happens to my freedom?”

• “What if I mess this up?”

• “What if she doesn’t want me involved?”

• “What if I do want to be involved, but I’m terrified?”

Sound familiar? Yeah, you’re not broken - you’re just joining the club. These aren’t signs of weakness. They’re signs that you give a damn.

The Invisible Backpack You Didn’t Know You Were Wearing

This is what people call the mental load, and while it often gets discussed in the context of mums, dads carry their own version too.

It’s the weight of:

• Wanting to be supportive but not knowing how.

• Feeling pressure to "step up" while still trying to process what stepping up even means.

• Juggling work, money, moods, and the massive shift in your identity.

Here’s the Truth:

• You don’t need to have it all figured out on Day 1. No-one expects you to.

• Fear and responsibility can exist at the same time. You can be scared and still show up.

• Being involved isn’t about perfection - it’s about presence. That’s what matters most.

How to Ease the Mental Load (Without Losing Your Mind)

You don’t have to carry all the pressure in silence. Here’s how to make things feel a little lighter, one step at a time:

Talk It Out - Even If It’s Awkward

• Tell your partner how you’re feeling. Not sure what to say? Try: “I want to be here for you, but I’m figuring this out too.”

• Find a trusted mate, brother, or dad who’s been through it. Even a 15-minute vent can help.

• Consider talking to a therapist or coach. You’re not broken, you’re just building new mental muscles.

Write the Worry Down

• Grab your phone or a notebook and brain-dump every fear or “what if” on your mind.

• Then go through it and cross out the stuff you can’t control. Focus only on what you can.

Pick One Thing to Own

• Feeling overwhelmed often comes from trying to do everything at once.

• Choose one thing you can own in this early phase, maybe it’s managing the calendar, sorting the hospital bag, or learning how to make her favourite snack without setting off the fire alarm.

Don’t Ditch Your Own Needs

• Look, you’re no use to anyone if you’re running on fumes.

• Keep up your workouts, call your mates, or squeeze in 20 minutes for your own sanity - guilt-free.

Learn to Say: “I Don’t Know Yet”

• You’re not expected to have instant answers to big, life-changing stuff.

• “I don’t know yet, but I’ll figure it out” is a power move, not a cop-out.

Pro Dad Reminder:

If you ever feel like you're failing - remember you’re just adapting. Feeling the weight doesn’t mean you’re weak. It means you’re engaged. Every step you take in the right direction helps ease the load for your partner.  As David Goggins say's "who's gonna carry the boats?" in this instance...thats you! And that’s what makes you a great dad already.

Relationship Reality Check

Pregnancy changes everything - including your relationship.

• Mood Swings & Hormones: She might cry during a dog food commercial. Just ride the wave and always have tissues on hand and snacks...always have snacks. 

• Sex Might Shift:  And not just physically. Talk about it, don’t assume. That way you both know where each others expectations are and how each other is feeling. OR/ just poke her with it and hope for the best.

• Communication Gets Weird:  She’s processing a whole new identity. You might be too. Be kind to her and yourself. 

Quick tip? Listen more than you talk. Silence can feel like support when used right.

The “New Dad Survival” Basics: What You Should Know

Let’s keep it practical:

• Vitamins & Appointments – Know what she needs and when.

• Baby Milestones – Learn the basics: trimesters, scans, heartbeat checks.

• Start Saving – Think beyond nappies: cot, car seat, pram, maternity clothes, coffee… so much coffee.

Stuff You Can Actually Do This Week

Feeling stuck? Start here 

Download our Free Dad-to-Be Checklist - It’s a no-BS guide to help you on your pathway to fatherhood. Practical steps. No fluff. Just clarity and calm in the chaos.

Download it here

Don’t Be a Hero. Be a Teammate.

Look, you don’t need to solve it all or turn into some Pinterest-level Superdad overnight.

What your partner really needs is a teammate.

That means:

• Holding space for her emotions without centering your own. But equally conveying yours when the time is right. 

• Managing your reactions. It’s okay to feel - just don’t lash out or judge. That's the fastest way to getting a pair of Crocs to the face. 

• Asking how you can help, not assuming. That way you get it right...and avoid any possible shit fights. 

Showing up isn’t a grand gesture - it’s a daily habit.

Freaked Out Is Fine. Just Don’t Disappear.

You’re not alone in feeling like you just got side-swiped by life. But fatherhood doesn’t start at the birth - it starts now.

Quick-Fire List: 

• Confirm the pregnancy with a professional.

• Be there emotionally and physically.

• Make a plan, even if it’s loose.

• Don’t say “we’re pregnant” unless she’s cool with it.

• Support, don’t smother.

• Start small, stay consistent.

This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present.

FAQs for First-Time Dads

Q: Should I go to the first pregnancy appointment?
A: Yes. Even if you're unsure where things stand with your partner, showing up matters.

Q: What should I do if my partner doesn’t want me involved?
A: Respect her space, but let her know you're willing to step up and support however you can. Situations can be tricky but with good open comunications things can often work out. 

Q: What if I’m just not ready to be a dad?
A: Almost no one feels 100% ready. Be kind to yourself, allow yourself to grow into it, knowing you dont need to know all the answers...but you are willing to learn along the way. And always get support if you need it.

Want More No-BS Dad Survival Tips?

Explore the full guide at  www.pregnantmenguide.com
Follow us on Instagram for daily support, real-talk advice, and the occasional dad joke you can steal.

You’re in. Let’s go.

Welcome to the Pregnant Men pre-launch hub—a first look at what we’re building for expecting dads who want to step up, not freak out.

Whether you just found out you’re going to be a dad or you’re halfway through navigating cravings, mood swings, or feeling completely out of your depth—this space is for you.

Here’s the deal…

What This Is:

You’ve jumped in during our pre-launch phase, which means:

• You get early access to exclusive free content

• The full membership (with tools, resources, full chapters, and our mobile app) is dropping soon

• You’ll be the first to know when it opens, and yep—you’ll get early bird pricing

Right now, you’ll find three posts waiting for you:

1. This welcome post (the one your reading right now)

2. A downloadable "Dad to be survival checklist" to give you quick wins right now

3. A bonus post sharing Adam’s story—a raw, real insight into what it actually feels like when your partner’s pregnant and you don’t know how to help

What’s Coming:

When the full membership launches, you’ll unlock:

• Access to the mobile app
• Full Access to "Pregnant Men – The Pre-Arrival Survival Guide For Dads-To-Be"
• Listen on the go with audio chapters.
• Members get 15% Off Merch
• Dad-to-Be Survival Checklist
• Exclusive Member Discounts & Deals
• Monthly Newsletter (Dad Tips & Hacks)
• Personal Member Shout-Out

You’ll get more than just "Dad tips"—you’ll get support, self-awareness, and confidence to handle the chaos like a legend.

What to Do Next:

Step 1: Head to the Cheat Sheet post and download your free Survival Checklist.  It’s quick, practical, and guaranteed to make you feel at least 20% more useful.

Step 2: Read Adam’s Story to get a taste of the tone and realness we’re bringing.

Step 3 (optional but awesome):
Got a mate who’s also expecting? Send them here. Good dads help other dads get their sh*t together.

And if you’ve got any early feedback or questions, hit reply or drop a comment—we're building this with you in mind...so makes sense to get your feedback and if we can action it...we will.

You’ve taken the first step. Respect.