Shoiab Abrahim To Ram Charan, Actors Who Will Soon Embrace Fatherhood: Did You Know About Couvade Syndrome Symptoms Dads-To-Be Experience?
22 May 2023 | 5 min Read
Manisha Pradhan
Author | 983 Articles
Television actor Sohaib Abrahim is all set to embrace fatherhood. He recently shared that he is busy with the renovations of his house to welcome the new addition to his family. Shohaib and his actor wife Dipika Kakkar are expecting their first baby and Shohaib revealed that he and his family are busy shopping for the baby, besides renovating his house.
However, he said that he has not learnt a lot of new things about pregnancy as he’s been busy doing up the house. “I am not learning anything new “Mujhe kuch pata nahi hai”. I’m just busy with the new house. Kehte hain every human apni kismat leke aata hai… so we have bought the flat next to ours and the renovation is going on. First it was a 3BHK flat and now it is a 5 BHK. We are going to start shopping and everything soon which we will show in our VLOG,” said Sohaib.
Shoaib Abrahim now joins the long list of celebrity dads-to-be, along with actors Ram Charan, singer-actor Rahul Vaidya, Vatsal Sheth and Gautam Rode. Even though the fact that he is going to be a father soon, maybe just sinking in for Sohaib Abrahim, did you know that some dads-to-be experience pregnancy symptoms?
While we often associate pregnancy with mums-to-be, dads-to-be may experience their own set of pregnancy symptoms too. It’s called Couvade Syndrome! Want to know more? Read on.
What is Couvade Syndrome?
Couvade Syndrome, also known as “sympathetic pregnancy” or “pregnancy empathy,” refers to a condition where expectant fathers experience physical and psychological symptoms similar to those of their pregnant partners. While it may sound unusual, Couvade Syndrome is more common than you might think, affecting up to 90% of expectant fathers to some degree.
Common Covade Syndrome Symptoms
Some of the most common Covade Syndrome symptoms are:
Morning Sickness
One of the most well-known symptoms of pregnancy is morning sickness, yes, believe it or not, not just mums, dads-to-be can experience it too! Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite are just a few of the ways Couvade Syndrome manifests itself.
Weight Gain
Just like mums, some expectant fathers may notice an increase in their waistline during their partner’s pregnancy, although it may not be due to actual weight gain, hormonal changes can cause water retention and bloating.
Mood Swings
Pregnancy hormones can wreak havoc on emotions, and dads-to-be are not immune! It’s not uncommon for expectant fathers to experience mood swings, ranging from elation and excitement to anxiety and irritability.
Sleepless Nights
As the due date approaches, many expectant fathers find themselves experiencing sleep disturbances. Anxiety, anticipation, and late-night baby preparations can all contribute to restless nights.
Psychological and Emotional Changes In Dads-To-Be Experiencing Couvade Syndrome Symptoms
Increased Empathy
Couvade Syndrome often brings a heightened sense of empathy in expectant fathers. They may become more attuned to their partner’s needs and emotions, providing a strong support system during pregnancy.
Bonding with the Baby
Some dads-to-be report feeling a stronger bond with their unborn child during Couvade Syndrome and they may actively participate in prenatal activities like talking to the baby, attending doctor’s appointments, and even experiencing phantom kicks!
Anxiety and Worry
It’s natural for both parents to feel anxious during pregnancy, but expectant fathers with Couvade Syndrome may experience heightened levels of worry. Concerns about the baby’s health, the delivery process, and the new responsibilities of fatherhood can all contribute to these feelings.
How To Cope With Couvade Syndrome Symptoms
- Stay Active: Engaging in physical activities and exercise can help alleviate symptoms and boost overall well-being. Take walks with your partner, practice prenatal yoga, or join a childbirth class together.
- Communicate Openly: Talk to your partner about your experiences, concerns, and emotions. Sharing your journey can strengthen your relationship and provide mutual support.
- Seek Support: Joining a support group or connecting with other expectant fathers can provide a sense of camaraderie and an opportunity to share experiences. Online forums, parenting classes, and community organizations are great places to find support.
- Self-Care Matters: Take care of yourself physically and mentally. Prioritise healthy eating, get enough rest, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Remember, a happy and healthy dad is crucial for the well-being of the entire family!
As expectant fathers, it’s essential to embrace and understand the phenomenon of Couvade Syndrome. While it may seem peculiar or amusing, it highlights the deep emotional connection and shared experience between partners during pregnancy.
All the dads-to-be out there experiencing Couvade Syndrome symptoms, embrace this extraordinary chapter of your life with a sense of humour, understanding, and love. Cherish the shared moments, the baby kicks (real or phantom), and the joyous anticipation of welcoming your little one into the world.
Congratulations to all the expectant fathers out there, and here’s to a healthy and happy pregnancy for both mum and dad!
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Also Read:
Actor Vatsal Seth Talks About Preparing For A Baby: Fun Tips to Help To-Be-Dads Adjust To Life’s Biggest Change
On Soon To Be Dad Ram Charan’s Birthday We’ve Listed 11 Gifts For New Dads: A helpful list to help you chose the perfect gift for new dads and dads-to-be
Cover image source: Instagram
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