Whether you’ve been trying or not, that little white stick that your partner emerged from the bathroom holding has predicted that you are going to be a dad in 9 months time, and if you admit it, that’s pretty scary!

So now you are probably wondering what exactly you need to know, what you need to do, what the options are, and how you can support the mother. Well don’t worry – you are not alone – these are common questions that cross the minds of most fathers-to-be.

The big news – If you’ve been trying, then it will be exciting and a little scary when you get the news that your partner is pregnant. If not, then you will be shocked, scared and most probably feeling a whole range of conflicting emotions racing round your body all at once. Just make sure that you and your partner discuss the pregnancy properly and in a sensitive manner.

Lending a hand and supporting – Making your partner feel loved and supported is really important throughout the pregnancy as they will be tired, emotional and under the strain of a lot more weight! Show support by going along to antenatal classes, doing the shopping, and just helping out with day to day activities – it will all be appreciated! The more you do together in preparation for the birth, the easier it will to be a team when the baby arrives.