Secrets of the superdads

Experienced dads offer man-to-man advice about keeping you happy during the pregnancy and birth

You might want to bookmark this page, or leave the screen up on your computer when you know your man will spot it!

Here are the superdads' tips on how to keep you happy during this testing time...

My wife expressed her breastmilk so our son was still getting the best, but I could help with the feeding. I'd help with the early morning feed so she could get some sleep. I was awake for work anyway and wanted to make sure she got plenty of rest.
David Harrison, dad to Duncan, 10 months.

I'd never held a baby before Josh was born. But when they asked me if I wanted to cut the cord and then handed Josh to me, it felt completely natural. I'm so glad I was there from the very beginning.
Andy Peters, dad to Josh, nine months.

Watch birth programmes. Yes, they might be graphic, but it's worth knowing what's going to happen before you set foot in the labour room. And stop spending so much time with the lads - it pays to spend quality time with your other half while you still have the chance.
Marc Mackay, dad to Daniel-Ray, two and a half, and Kelson, eight months.

I gave up all the foods you're not meant to eat during pregnancy, and cut back on drinking throughout Mel's pregnancy and while she was breastfeeding, as I felt guilty having those things when she couldn't.
Lee Holmes, dad to Amelie, 16 months.

You may feel a bit redundant at the birth, but just being there for your partner is enough. It's hard at times because you don't know when it's going to end, but always remember its 100 times worse for her, so it's your job to stay strong and keep encouraging her - even if she does tell you to &*%$ off!
Jim Pickles, dad to Anna, 11 weeks.

Take care of the practical stuff. When my wife went into labour, we had to stop at the petrol station on the way to the hospital, which didn't go down well! Fill the car up, do a trial run to the hospital, take plenty of spare change for the parking machines and phone numbers for everyone you'll want to call after the birth.
Rod Cullen, dad to Phoebe, six months.

Even if you're slightly freaked out by her ballooning stomach and Jordan-like breasts, reassure her that you still love and fancy her. And if she doesn't feel like sex, don't pressure her. Just give her a kiss and a cuddle, you never know where it might lead...
Alex Thews, dad to Cate, two months.

Don't listen to your childless mates who'll tell you that your life is over. They don't know what they're talking about. When you hold your baby in your arms, those midnight runs to the supermarket to buy ice cream, massaging your partners back while she's in labour, extra housework and sleepless nights will all become worth it.
Kevin Bashford, dad to Woody, 18 weeks.

When she is in labour for ages and you ask if it's OK to pop out for a sandwich, DO NOT, under any circumstances, come back without a sandwich for her. Also, your partner isn't Superwoman, so let her lie in bed while you tackle the housework. Hopefully she'll be so engrossed in the baby she won't notice you're just pushing things under the chairs.
Ray Ranson, dad to Charlie, 18 months. Baby number two due in January.