Children change everything. Suddenly, you have another life to look after — a miniature version of yourself to care and provide for. Despite the added stress and sleepless nights that come along with fatherhood, it's an emotionally rewarding role that gives many men purpose.
It comes with some health perks too. Becoming a dad makes you look in the mirror and face your own health because you want to model good behavior and be around to see your little guy or girl grow up.
Research backs it up. The health benefits of having kids are clear.
You ditch the bad habits like smoking and drinking.
Babies don't know if you smoke or drink and whether that's good or bad. But their mere presence can change your lifestyle for the better. Secondhand smoke is damaging for everyone, but especially babies. It can cause respiratory problems and increase their risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Many new dads quit smoking for the sake of their baby's health. They also cut back on the alcohol.
And you pick up good ones.
Quitting smoking and drinking in moderation are boosts to your health. They aren't the only healthy behaviors dads display. Fathers are more physically fit, have lower rates of substance abuse and demonstrate less risky behavior. They're more likely to prioritize exercise in their busy schedules and eat healthy meals with the family instead of a bag of fast food.
You actually start going to the doctor.
Men are notorious for avoiding the doctor. The newfound focus on health brought on by fatherhood finally gives many men a reason to visit their primary care physician. When you're shuttling a baby to an appointment every few weeks, suddenly getting your own check-up sounds like a good idea. Establishing a relationship with your doctor leads to better overall health. You're more likely to get recommended screenings and make an appointment when something ails you.
Your mental health improves.
They don't call them little bundles of joy for nothing. Having a child can boost your mood and lower your stress. A long-term study by the National Institute of Mental Health found that having a good relationship with your kids makes you less prone to the common health problems associated with stress.
One in 10 dads suffers from postpartum depression, much like moms, and is a growing concern for new fathers. But overall, fatherhood brings mental health benefits. Dads have higher self-esteem, more optimism, enhanced personal satisfaction and fewer mental health disorders like anxiety and depression.
You have a better work-life balance.
The benefits of having children extend to the workplace. Knowing there's a child eagerly waiting to see you at the end of the day reduces work-related stress and makes you better at dealing with it. This improves your well-being as well as your performance, according to a study from the Academy of Management.
Dads who engage in activities with their kids, feel more satisfied with their lives and have a stronger connection to their families. They're also happier with their jobs, have less work-related conflict and are less likely to consider quitting.
Your social life gets better.
Contrary to popular belief, having kids isn't the end of your social life. Dads actually do more socializing. While you may not see the guys quite as much, you make new connections through your child's activities and events. You spend more time with family — parents, in-laws, siblings, cousins — neighbors and other parents.
It seems that most engaged fathers say they wouldn't trade their parenting role for anything, despite the added responsibilities and stressors.
And now, the medical evidence says they're healthier for it too.
DanielKoos , MD
Daniel Koos, MD is a board-certified family medicine physician who graduated medical school in 2007 and completed his residency in 2010. Prior to joining The Iowa Clinic in 2017, Dr. Koos worked in a rural health system in Waverly-Shell Rock, delivering babies, providing hospital inpatient care, and visiting patients at long-term care facilities. And while he has moved on from those areas of care, he continues to enjoy providing outpatient care for patients of all ages. His favorite part of family medicine is developing relationships through continuity of care.
Dr. Koos is a native of Dubuque where he was his high school's valedictorian and an all-American swimmer. He was awarded a Presidential Scholarship to the University of Iowa and graduated with a degree in biomedical engineering. He jointly founded the University of Iowa’s triathlon team and competing in an Ironman is on his bucket list. While earning his medical degree in Cincinnati he regretfully became a Bengals fan. Thankfully, he is able to proudly cheer on the Hawkeyes. He and his wife, Stephanie, are blessed with five children that fill their lives with laughter and joy.