3 Ways You Didn’t Know Fatherhood Can Affect A Man’s Body And Health
Last updated January 2, 2024.
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Fatherhood: it’s a unique experience that – for many men – can be totally life-changing. It also happens to be an experience that can change a man’s biology – his body and health. Fatherhood is, in other words, not just an emotional, psychological journey: it’s something much more than that.
So, in celebration of dads – and all they do for us – let’s take a look at 3 ways fatherhood can affect a man’s body and health.
(1) Drop in Testosterone
Many men experience a decline in testosterone levels when they transition into fatherhood. Scientists think this is because lower testosterone in men may promote caregiving behaviors, possibly making them more nurturing dads.
Think your testosterone might be too low? Check your T levels from the comfort of home with the easy-to-use Testosterone Test.
(2) Less Physical Activity
Regular physical activity is important because it contributes to a healthy body and mind. However, it’s not uncommon for men to experience less physical activity when they become fathers. This is often due to new, family-related responsibilities that can make it difficult for a dad to commit to regular physical activity.
What’s more, fathers with young children tend to experience a larger decrease in physical activity levels compared to mothers. Because of this, fathers are also at a greater risk of obesity than moms are.
(So if you’re a dad, try to make sure you still hit the gym, take walks, participate in sports, or do any other form of physical activity you enjoy.)
(3) Increased Stress
First-time dads often experience a good deal of stress. (If you’ve recently become a dad yourself, you probably know exactly what that stress is like.) New dads often have a full-time job to balance along with their responsibilities around their newborn child. This can mean that there’s simply no time to relax.
(Side note: consider getting Dad an at-home Men’s Health Test, which measures important hormones like cortisol – the “stress hormone.”)
The good news here is that – at the end of the day – fatherhood is an often deeply-rewarding experience, despite the sleepless nights, stress, and the “non-stop-ness of it” all (as one new dad put it).
Summary
- Fatherhood can contribute to changes in a man’s body and health.
- Testosterone levels can decrease – as well as activity levels. Stress often increases for first-time fathers.
Want to get Dad a wellness gift this Father’s Day? Browse Everlywell at-home lab test kits here.
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