Why Are Men Afraid of the Big Day?

Ladies, what would be your first reaction when it comes to a soccer game you have to play along? Joining in a competition that goes on the whole day and never really stops? Where you (most probably) don’t understand the rules, and maybe after a few games you’ve just had enough. You rather leave this to men. Think about it- many men have the same feeling when it comes to birth. (BTW- I’m definitely not trying to compare giving birth to a soccer game. It’s the feeling I’m referring to- when you’re not really sure what’s going on and you feel left out). In lots of countries, it is still a habit that only women attend the birth. The men are outside waiting. It is a very warm and supportive environment. And women can give this to each other (maybe) in a more natural way than men.

Since men would like to be our heroes, not knowing what to do, or doing something wrong, is pretty terrifying for them.

Talking to relatives and friends, I am still getting the feedback that the partner felt left out during their child’s birth. He did not know what to do anymore, what to say, or how to make her feel comfortable. Some of the men even suffered to see her in such pain. Some fainted… yes, you hear pretty much everything.

This concept has changed a lot, compared to 40 years ago- that men are expected to be there during the birth. I understand that you want your partner next to you for the Big Day. And this is totally manageable! Just give your partner the time he needs, to get excited. Train for it! Every day. 5 Minutes. And it will be FUN!

(Careful: you might fall head over heals in love again!)