Who's Your Daddy? 9 Father Figures in Every Maternity Ward
So much of preparing for childbirth focuses on the mom - but what about Dad? Depending on the situation - and his character - new fathers fall under one of these delivery room dad archetypes, from the one who's about to pass out, to the one who has donned his scrubs and is ready to catch the baby. Take it from this labor and delivery nurse and learn about the 9 most common types of dads that you'll meet during delivery.
1. Doting Dad
As one woman described, this type of dad treats his partner like she is "the only woman who has ever given birth." Doting Dad is like gold during labor and delivery - calm, cool, and collected, he offers loving encouragement to his partner, while avoiding crossing into the territory of annoying.
Related: 25 ways husbands embarrass their wives in the delivery room
2. Overbearing Dad
This dad stands in extreme danger to be verbally, if not physically, assaulted by his partner during childbirth with his extreme "support" tactics. Overbearing Dad rubs his wife's back when she is trying to breathe through a contraction, or offers Olympic coach-quality, in-her-face pep talks when all she wants is to be left alone. He may carry on all the way through birth. If you're partner's acting like this, be prepared to nip it in the bud early on.
3. Danger Dad
Danger Dad is pale and nauseous, teetering on the edge of unconsciousness. Danger Dad reminds us all of the good ol' days when dads were huddled together in waiting rooms until presented with a swaddled bundle of joy. When asked if he is okay, Danger Dad always replies in the affirmative, but a smart nurse will keep an eye (and a chair) out. Tip: ask for a bottle of orange juice early on to replenish dropping blood sugars if Danger Dad looms on your baby's birthday.
4. Disappearing Dad
If you are having trouble locating your partner for more than five-minute stretches, you may have a case of Disappearing Dad on your hands. Disappearing Dad is a bundle of nerves and can't stand the confines of the hospital room while he watches as a helpless observer. Look for excuses ranging from "I'm going to just go get a quick drink" to "I have to check on the car seat. Again."
Related: 25 powerful photos of women giving birth
5. Strong and Silent Dad
While I have to admit I am partial to this style of delivery room dad, it is simply because my own man displayed it so perfectly. Holding off until he is aware of his partner's needs, the Strong and Silent Dad stays quiet until he realizes how he can best help…whether that means simply letting Mom labor her way, or stepping up to the plate at the last minute to do some baby-catching.
6. Doctor Dad
Bouncing and prancing around the room like a proud peacock, this dad challenges all medical assumptions with his vast Internet knowledge, and even attempts to speak for his partner's pain management needs with statements such as "Well, I read about this one lady whose back got messed up from an epidural…"
7. Catcher Dad
All that's missing with this dad is a catcher's mitt. Overeager to get a firsthand look at all the action down there, Catcher Dad can be a little tricky to handle. While his enthusiasm is admirable, a gentle reminder to stay clear of the path of nature may be in order. Because let's be honest - birth is not always a neat n' tidy process.
Related: 25 things you should NEVER do with your baby
8. No-Way-Can-I-Look-Down-There Dad
Simply put, this first-time dad is afraid. Very afraid. While I am of the school that birth is an incredible miracle to witness, I have found that sometimes, it's best to just let these dads do their thing. I do, however, draw a line if their fear crosses over to cutting the cord. I'm sorry, but there comes a time when he simply has to man up.
9. Insta-Dad
Perhaps one of the most common types of delivery room dads, the Insta-Dad is a fascinating phenomenon to behold. Uneasy and unsure throughout labor, Insta-Dad is a mere spectator until he is transformed as Cinderella at the ball. The moment he lays eyes on his newborn, Insta-Dad stands a little straighter, wipes away the tears he tries to hide, and instantly steps into his new role of parenthood. And all we can say is - welcome.
- By Chaunie Brusie
For 4 more dads you'll meet in the maternity ward, visit Babble!
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