Couple balance after birth: growing as parents without forgetting yourself

The arrival of a newborn is an extraordinarily transformative event that enriches the lives of parents and the couple, introducing new opportunities for individual and relational growth. This period, known as the transition to parenthood, is characterized by a harmonious interaction between neuroendocrine adaptation, affective modulation and a positive redefinition of relational dynamics.

Psychobiological changes in the postpartum period

Maternal postpartum brings hormonal fluctuations that promote wellbeing and bonding with the baby: the rapid decrease in oestrogens and progesterone, together with the increase in prolactin and oxytocin, helps improve attachment, stress regulation and empathy toward the newborn (Feldman, 2012). Fathers also show significant neuroendocrine adaptations, particularly in the oxytocin and dopamine systems, which increase emotional sensitivity and the propensity for caregiving (Feldman et al., 2010).

On a psychological level, many mothers and fathers experience postpartum as an opportunity to develop greater emotional awareness, resilience and affect regulation strategies. This process strengthens couple communication, increases mutual closeness and promotes bonding with the baby, harmoniously integrating the parental role with personal identity (Paulson & Bazemore, 2010).

Maternal role

The maternal role manifests as positive primary parenting, which includes direct care, physiological regulation of the newborn and affective modulation. The mother acts as a catalyst for the baby’s emotional homeostasis thanks to the action of oxytocin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that foster attachment and strengthen caregiving motivation (Feldman, 2012). At the same time, the mother integrates her personal self with the caregiver role, experiencing emotional growth and fulfilment that enhances confidence in herself and in the couple relationship.

Paternal role

The paternal role has a significant influence on the child’s socio-emotional development and on couple cohesion. Sensitive fatherhood is expressed through emotional support for the mother, active participation in daily care, and playful–cognitive interactions with the newborn. Activation of the neuro-oxytocin and dopaminergic systems supports caregiving and strengthens father–infant bonding, contributing to the emotional wellbeing of the entire family (Feldman et al., 2010). Fatherhood also enables the integration of responsibility and autonomy, offering opportunities for personal growth and satisfaction within the parental role.

Parents’ role as a couple unit

Beyond individual roles, postpartum parenting represents an opportunity to strengthen the couple as a co-parenting unit. By coordinating care, sharing responsibilities and supporting each other, parents improve communication, increase relational satisfaction and promote secure attachment in their children (Feinberg, 2003). Positive co-parenting helps preserve individual space and develop an integrated identity, reinforcing the partnership and complicity between the partners.

Conclusions

The postpartum period is a unique opportunity to strengthen the couple’s bond and build a harmonious parenthood. Integrating the maternal, paternal and parental roles makes it possible to balance newborn care with personal fulfilment, promoting the psychophysical wellbeing of the entire family. Through emotional awareness, collaboration and bonding, parents can experience the transition to parenthood as a moment of joy, growth and strengthening of family ties.