Nothing helps a mother get through the first few weeks at home better than a supportive partner. Just as you've become a new parent, so has he. You will need to support each other.

Creating new bonds
Remember that the deep bonding between a mother and her new baby may leave father feeling a bit neglected. You can ease these feelings by encouraging his participation in baby-related activities such as changing and bathing. This will relieve some of your workload while showing him that he is both wanted and needed. It will also help build a bond between father and child.

Strengthening old bonds
Here are some things you can do to keep a close relationship with your partner:

• Plan to spend some time alone together. Lack of time for romance and socializing is among a new father's main complaints.
  
  
• Allow your partner to have his own baby care style, even if it's not exactly like your own.
  
  
• Take time to express your feelings of love and commitment, assuring him that the baby's arrival has strengthened the bond between you.
  
  
• Openly discuss his concerns and don't let resentment build. If this doesn't ease the tension, consider attending a postpartum support group.
  
  
• Before baby arrives, ask your partner to look into the possibility of taking a short parental leave from his job.
  
  
• Before baby arrives, plan with your partner how to redistribute household duties.