Your hormones mirror your partner’s during pregnancy

Hi, this is Dan from Dad Psych.

Freaked out about becoming a dad?

Every Wednesday, we’ll untangle the science and psychology behind your new world in 5 minutes or less.

Straightforward, research-backed and free from cringe parental tips.

In today’s edition:

1. Your hormones mirror your partner’s during pregnancy- Good thing or bad thing? We explore the science.

2. Instagram moment of the week- Scottish way of saying ‘I love you’.

3. Reddit post of the week- Young lad has no idea what a cigarette is.

Your hormones mirror your partner’s during pregnancy

Ever heard the myth that women’s periods sync up? Well, it's bollocks. Sorry to burst that bubble.

But there is something else involving hormonal synchrony that might surprise you.

^{(never thought I’d say that line in a million years).}

It's called ‘Prenatal Hormonal Synchrony’, and it happens between couples expecting a baby.

A recent study explored this “physiological synchrony,” where hormones like cortisol (the stress hormone) and testosterone in both men and women tend to align as they prepare for parenthood.

The study reviewed 13 cases and found that expectant parents often experience synchronized hormonal shifts. Cortisol, testosterone, prolactin, and oxytocin showed linkages, particularly around childbirth, influencing behaviours that can strengthen parenting instincts and deepen partner bonds.

So, is prenatal hormonal synchrony all positive? It’s a bit of both. On the plus side, aligned hormones can create a supportive dynamic—more connection, empathy, and shared excitement as both partners transition into new roles.

However, when stress levels (cortisol) rise, this shared intensity can also amplify, meaning one partner’s stress may elevate the other’s, adding tension during challenging moments. It doesn’t really matter if you were the chill one in the relationship and she was the fiery one (or vice versa), that all goes out the window when you’re expecting.

It might even explain why you’ve been getting a bit teary-eyed over rom-coms lately. Don’t deny it.

Ultimately, these changes show that you’re in sync as a team. Understanding this can help you feel more connected and ready to face this journey into parenthood together.

Insta moment of the week 📹️ 

I dunno about you, but my feed is full of parenting/fatherhood/pregnancy since the big news. Some absolute bangers on there, though.

Here’s a young Scottish lad telling his dad how much he loves him…😂 

theescottishbible

View more on Instagram

Reddit Dad post of the week 📮 

This is wild. So, as a TLDR, this little boy had no idea what a cigarette was after seeing one (of many) of Samuel L Jackson’s during Jurrasic Park.

This is a major societal shift. Then again, maybe this is just what getting older feels like. I still remember my dad’s reaction when I admitted I didn’t know who a certain actor was or hadn’t heard of some long-gone item (shout-out to my dad—I know you’ll be reading this, shaking your head). Maybe this is just one of those moments

Without sounding too clickbaity and begging for interaction, I’d genuinely love to know something from your childhood that you think your baby will have no idea about in the future.

Drop a reply to the email and we’ll get a discussion going in the next edition!

I need your help!

Dad Psych has managed to pull in sponsors!

…and they’ve kindly agreed to sponsor this edition. High 5s all around.

By clicking 1, 2 or all 3 of the links below, I’m able to cover the subscription fees to keep pumping this email out to you for free. No signup crap, all I’m kindly asking for here is a simple click.

Also, don’t be worried about security, these links are vetted by Beehiiv, the newsletter provider I use. You wouldn’t be seeing them if they were dodgy.

You’ll be doing me a huge favour. Thank you!

Say ohai to an AI assistant...and bye to parental overwhelm

Introducing Ohai.ai, an AI assistant designed to lighten the mental load of busy parents. Ohai keeps track of the details that take up your time and brainspace – like managing your family calendar and to-do list, planning endless meals, remembering everything, and reading all those emails.

Ohai can help you:

• get organized

• coordinate tasks

• make meal plans

• order groceries

• anticipate upcoming events and conflicts

• and scan emails for key info.

Try Ohai.ai and use code FALL50 to get 50% off your first month.

Seeking impartial news? Meet 1440.

Every day, 3.5 million readers turn to 1440 for their factual news. We sift through 100+ sources to bring you a complete summary of politics, global events, business, and culture, all in a brief 5-minute email. Enjoy an impartial news experience.

Join for free today!

Smelly Activewear? ACTIVE Detergent Was Designed Specifically For You!

• Scientifically Formulated For Activewear Fabrics & Clothing

• Natural Enzyme Blend Breaks Down Trapped Sweat & Odors

• 90 Loads Per Bag = Less Than 35 Cents Per Load!

Save 20% On ACTIVE Today!