Objective To explore the actor partner effects of dyadic coping on parenting competence among postpartum couples, and to provide reference for targeted intervention. MethodsUsing convenience sampling method, a total of 274 couples were recruited when they attended a follow up visit at 42 days postpartum, and were invited to complete a self designed general data questionnaire, the Dyadic Coping Inventory and the Parenting Sense of Competence Scale. Based on the actor partner interdependence model, the relationships between dyadic coping and parenting competence of postpartum women and their partners were analyzed. ResultsThe total scores of dyadic coping for postpartum women and their partners were (128.96±16.23) and (129.62±15.56) points, respectively, while the total scores of parenting competence were (72.32±9.59) and (73.15±8.22) points, respectively.Both women′s and men′s dyadic coping was positively correlated with their own parenting competence (β＝0.314 and 0.299, both P<0.05), indicating significant actor effects.The partner effect of dyadic coping on parenting competence of couples was also significant (β=0.240 and 0.325, both P<0.05). ConclusionThe parenting competence and dyadic coping of postpartum couples were at moderate levels, and dyadic coping has intra and interpersonal impact on their own or partner′s parenting competence. To enhance positive parenting experiences after childbirth, healthcare providers should involve both postpartum women and their partners in the development of a couple centered parenting intervention program.