This article explores the experiences and feelings fathers may have during a pregnancy and childbirth. It discusses how paternal developmental processes occurring during pregnancy are influenced by such factors as whether the pregnancy is planned or unplanned, the quality of the partner relationship, previous experiences with childbearing and childrearing, paternal and maternal age, educational level, socioeconomic status, and cultural and ethnic variables. Fears of expectant fathers are examined, as well as the reasons a father may have for being present at the birth of his child. The roles of fathers during labor and birth are described and ways couples may interact during the birth are discussed. 28 references.