You are Primed for Fatherhood

Fathers play an important role in raising up their children. There are hormonal and physiological factors that help support them in carrying out this role. There have been numerous studies that have looked at the hormonal and physiological changes in mothers during pregnancy and after childbirth, but are there similar hormonal and physiological changes in fathers? Recently, more research has been conducted on fathers focusing on hormonal and physiological changes that occur in them as they execute their parental role. 

Hormones and Physiological Factors Affecting Fathers in Parenting

Hormonal Changes in Fathers

It is well-known that women experience hormonal changes during pregnancy and childbirth, but lesser known is the fact that fathers also experience hormonal changes during this time. Studies have shown that fathers experience a decrease and increase in levels of certain hormones such as testosterone, cortisol and prolactin, to name a few,  during their partner's pregnancy and in the early months of their child's life. This primes fathers for their parenting role.  

We'll be discussing the fascinating findings from two insightful articles published in PubMed and anecdotes from the book Raised by Animals by Jennifer L. Verdolin. But before we look at these research articles, here are two passages from the Bible that set the background for us. 
There is a passage in 2 Peter 1:3 which says “His divine nature has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.” It is godly to be a good father, and God has put in us all that we need to execute this role as He would have us do. He has given us the capacity to learn and grow as we continue to be fathers. I think one way God prepares us as fathers is in our bodies as we shall see later in this episode. 

It says in Psalm 139:13-14 “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” It is wonderful how God put together the human body and indeed the bodies of all creatures, to operate mechanically, biologically, emotionally and even spiritually. There are chemicals that run within our bodies that help us function optimally, these have been famously called hormones. They serve specific functions. One such function that they prime us for is the function of being parents. So, let’s get right into it and explore this idea of fatherhood and hormones!

We start with the article titled "It Takes Two! Exploring sex differences in parenting neurobiology and behavior" by Purva Rajhans et al.(Published 2019) This study aimed to investigate the role of hormones in parenting behaviors and how they differ between mothers and fathers. The article states “behavioral studies have documented sex differences between mother-infant and father-infant interactions. For example, mother-infant interactions are mostly characterized by affectionate touch, emotional warmth and support, whereas father-infant interactions are primarily characterized by physical interactions, such as “rough and tumble” stimulatory or exploratory play.These observed differences in mother-child versus father-child interactions suggest that neuroendocrine differences may exist between the two sexes.” 

One of the noteworthy findings from this research is the involvement of the hormone oxytocin in fathers' parenting experiences.

[Quote 1 from Purva Rajhans et al. article]
"Oxytocin, often referred to as the 'love hormone,' is involved in promoting bonding, caregiving, and social interactions in fathers. Increased levels of oxytocin have been observed during nurturing activities such as play and physical affection."
Isn't that fascinating? Oxytocin, commonly associated with maternal bonding, also plays a significant role in paternal bonding. It facilitates the formation of emotional connections and strengthens the father-child relationship.
Moving on, let's explore the hormone vasopressin. Vasopressin is closely related to oxytocin and plays a crucial role in social bonding and paternal behavior. Research suggests that vasopressin levels in fathers may influence their caregiving behaviors.

[Quote 2 from Purva Rajhans et al. article]
"Vasopressin has been implicated in paternal care in various species, including humans. Higher vasopressin levels in fathers have been associated with increased positive interactions with children, such as playing and comforting."
The presence of elevated vasopressin levels in fathers indicates a biological mechanism that supports their active involvement in caregiving activities. This hormone helps foster a nurturing and supportive environment for children, contributing to their overall well-being.
Now, let's turn our attention to the second article, titled "Dads: Progress in understanding the neuroendocrine basis of human fathering behavior" by Anne E. Storey et al. (Published 2020) This study delved deeper into the neuroendocrine mechanisms underlying fathering behavior. One of the key findings from this research challenges the traditional notion of testosterone's role in fatherhood.

[Quote 3 from Anne E. Storey et al. article]
"Contrary to popular belief, testosterone levels in fathers decrease after the birth of their child, indicating a shift towards more nurturing and caregiving behaviors. Lower testosterone levels have been associated with increased paternal involvement and responsiveness to infants."
This finding is truly intriguing! It suggests that hormonal changes occur in fathers, specifically a decrease in testosterone levels, that align with their nurturing and caregiving role. This hormonal adjustment supports increased paternal involvement and responsiveness to their children.
 Additionally, let's explore the role of prolactin, a hormone commonly associated with lactation in females. While prolactin levels are typically higher in mothers, research suggests that fathers also experience changes in prolactin levels that contribute to their parenting behaviors.

[Quote 4 from Anne E. Storey et al. article]
"Prolactin levels in fathers have been found to increase during infant care. Elevated prolactin levels have been associated with increased bonding behaviors, such as nurturing, caregiving, and attentiveness towards infants."
 This finding highlights the importance of prolactin in facilitating the nurturing aspects of fatherhood. Increased prolactin levels enable fathers to develop a strong emotional connection with their children, providing essential support and care.
Now, let's explore the role of cortisol, commonly known as the stress hormone, in the context of fatherhood. While cortisol is often associated with negative outcomes, its role in fathers' parenting behaviors is more nuanced.

[Quote 5 from Purva Rajhans et al. article]
"Cortisol levels in fathers fluctuate in response to parenting stressors. Optimal levels of cortisol have been associated with increased paternal involvement and sensitivity, while high or low levels can negatively affect parenting behaviors."
It's interesting to note that cortisol levels in fathers can both positively and negatively impact their parenting experiences. Maintaining optimal levels of cortisol is crucial for fathers to effectively navigate parenting stressors and engage in responsive and supportive caregiving.
Building on these findings, both articles emphasize the importance of hormones in shaping fathers' parenting behaviors. The roles of oxytocin, vasopressin, prolactin, and cortisol contribute to nurturing, bonding, and responsive fathering. These hormonal changes work together to facilitate positive parenting experiences for fathers.

But how do these hormonal changes manifest in real-life parenting experiences? Fathers who experience increased levels of oxytocin, vasopressin, and prolactin are more likely to engage in nurturing activities such as cuddling, playing, and caretaking. These activities not only create opportunities for bonding but also support the emotional and cognitive development of their children. Moreover, the decrease in testosterone levels observed in fathers after childbirth suggests a shift toward more hands-on caregiving. Lower testosterone levels have been associated with increased sensitivity, empathy, and responsiveness to infants, enabling fathers to establish strong emotional connections with their children.

Additionally, cortisol levels in fathers play a role in managing parenting stress. Optimal levels of cortisol enable fathers to effectively cope with stressors, promoting their involvement, sensitivity, and adaptability in their parenting role.

It's important to note that these hormonal changes are not solely determined by biology but are also influenced by social and environmental factors. Cultural norms, societal expectations, and the support systems available to fathers play a significant role in shaping their parenting experiences.

Jennifer Verdolin author of Raised by Animals also shared her perspectives on the importance of hormones in parenting, affecting both the mother and father of a baby in the animal kingdom and also in humans. She indicated that Human fathers experience hormonal changes that prepare them for parenthood, notably:
Cortisol - Levels rise towards the end of their partner's pregnancy, helping to facilitate interactions and promote positive paternal behaviors.
Prolactin - This hormone is associated with bonding and is crucial for both maternal and paternal affection, impacting caregiving behaviors.
These hormonal shifts not only enhance fathers' responsiveness to their newborns but also contribute to the emotional and physical connections between fathers and their children.

This understanding underscores the role of hormones in shaping parenting dynamics and influences effective parenting strategies. Here are a couple of excerpts from this book:
“Human males don’t get pregnant, but that doesn’t mean that they won’t experience hormonal shifts that gear them up to be fathers. When it comes to cortisol, their levels don’t rise until the very end of their partners’ pregnancies. And, just like in women, it is thought that this short-term peak in cortisol serves the same function: to facilitate interaction and positive paternal behaviors.”

“Another fascinating hormonal change taking place involves prolactin. This hormone is most well known for its role in maternal behavior and milk production in mammals. Prolactin is involved in over three hundred biological functions, and what you may not know is that it is often referred to as the hormone of “fatherly love.””

“When dads play and interact with their infants, there is a corresponding increase in their baseline prolactin levels as well as increased concern when their new babies cry.”

Brain Changes in Fathers

Along with hormonal changes, fathers also experience changes in their brain structure and function as they become more involved in their children's lives. Studies have shown that fathers who are more involved in caregiving activities have increased activity in areas of the brain associated with empathy, reward, and motivation. These changes suggest that fathers who are actively involved in parenting may experience a greater sense of reward and satisfaction from their role.

Physiological Factors Affecting Fatherhood

While hormonal and brain changes are important factors affecting fathers' parenting, there are also other physiological factors that can support or hinder their role. For example, fathers who are in good physical health are more likely to be actively involved in their children's lives. This is because good physical health allows fathers to have the energy and stamina needed to keep up with their children's activities.

On the other hand, fathers who are dealing with chronic health conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, may struggle to keep up with the demands of parenting. These conditions can cause fatigue, pain, and other symptoms that can make it difficult to engage in physical activities with their children.

In conclusion, the findings from these articles shed light on the crucial role of hormones, including oxytocin, vasopressin, prolactin, and cortisol, in aiding fathers in their parenting role. These hormonal changes contribute to nurturing, bonding, and responsive fathering, providing children with the support and care they need for healthy development. As we continue to uncover the intricate connections between hormones and fatherhood, it's essential to recognize and appreciate the unique contributions that fathers make in their children's lives. By understanding the biological underpinnings of fatherhood, we can foster environments that support and celebrate fathers' involvement in parenting.