LAUSR

OBJECTIVE to describe first-time fathers experiences of their prenatal preparation in relation to challenges met in the early parenthood period. DESIGN a qualitative study was conducted and data was analysed with a phenomenographical approach. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS 15 first-time fathers were recruited from three postnatal units in southern Sweden and interviewed approximately one month after their baby was born. MEASUREMENTS AND FINDINGS three categories and 14 conceptions about fathers' experiences of their preparation emerged from the data. 'Acquiring knowledge and forming realistic expectations' was essential for 'Developing strategies' and 'Being facilitated and supported' enhanced these processes. KEY CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE supporting fathers to develop strategies for life with a new baby and providing expert guidance to fruitful and accurate information may help the construction of a fatherhood identity and strengthen the fatherhood role. The findings can be used to develop a parental preparation for early parenthood that will correspond to fathers' needs.