This study of fathers’ experiences of foetal attachment found that most fathers experienced a trigger moment that made the reality of having a baby clear to them and intensifying feelings of attachment toward the foetus. Support from male family members, friends with children and antenatal groups improved this connection, but many felt lost in their role and felt there was insufficient support for their mental health.

Lagarto, A., & Duaso, M. J. (2022). Fathers’ experiences of fetal attachment: A qualitative study. Infant Mental Health Journal, 43(2), 328-339.

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/imhj.21965?campaign=woletoc