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Fathers attending the birth of their baby: Views, intentions and needs

Fathers attending the birth of their baby: Views, intentions and needs INTRODUCTIONThe father's presence in the childbirth suite or operating theatre has become mainstream Western obstetric practice.1 Historically, childbirth was primarily a female‐only matter,2 and fathers were viewed as a nuisance and discouraged from attending.3–5 Since the mid‐20th century, there has been an increase in fathers wishing to be included in the childbirth experience.3,4,6–8 This change is partly due to increasing education; shifting societal expectations; and exposure to different cultures, technology, and social media.9–11 Although pregnant women prefer their partner to be present, it is difficult to determine the degree to which this is influenced by societal expectations or paternal wishes.2,9 Non‐attendance of fathers may be disapproved off,6 although sometimes fathers may perceive pressure to attend childbirth.9,12Paternal involvement during birth contributes to positive outcomes for the mother,3,4,6,13 including a reduction in labour length, decreased emotional distress and reduced pain medication.3,4,6,9 It also promotes paternal–infant attachment, a positive childbirth experience and an easier transition to fatherhood.4,6 Factors such as fathers' attitudes, behaviour and relationship with the mother may indirectly influence the risk of adverse birth outcomes.14 The emotional experiences of fathers may range from happiness, pride and joy to feelings of fear, uncertainty, exclusion and powerlessness.4,7,15 Adverse emotional experiences may contribute http://www.deepdyve.com/assets/images/DeepDyve-Logo-lg.png Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Wiley

Fathers attending the birth of their baby: Views, intentions and needs

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References (41)

Publisher
Wiley
Copyright
Copyright © 2023 The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
ISSN
0004-8666
eISSN
1479-828X
DOI
10.1111/ajo.13692
Publisher site
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Abstract

INTRODUCTIONThe father's presence in the childbirth suite or operating theatre has become mainstream Western obstetric practice.1 Historically, childbirth was primarily a female‐only matter,2 and fathers were viewed as a nuisance and discouraged from attending.3–5 Since the mid‐20th century, there has been an increase in fathers wishing to be included in the childbirth experience.3,4,6–8 This change is partly due to increasing education; shifting societal expectations; and exposure to different cultures, technology, and social media.9–11 Although pregnant women prefer their partner to be present, it is difficult to determine the degree to which this is influenced by societal expectations or paternal wishes.2,9 Non‐attendance of fathers may be disapproved off,6 although sometimes fathers may perceive pressure to attend childbirth.9,12Paternal involvement during birth contributes to positive outcomes for the mother,3,4,6,13 including a reduction in labour length, decreased emotional distress and reduced pain medication.3,4,6,9 It also promotes paternal–infant attachment, a positive childbirth experience and an easier transition to fatherhood.4,6 Factors such as fathers' attitudes, behaviour and relationship with the mother may indirectly influence the risk of adverse birth outcomes.14 The emotional experiences of fathers may range from happiness, pride and joy to feelings of fear, uncertainty, exclusion and powerlessness.4,7,15 Adverse emotional experiences may contribute

Journal

Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology – Wiley

Published: Oct 1, 2023

Keywords: antenatal class; childbirth; father; intention; survey

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