Fathers' Experiences of Childbirth Education

Abstract

The aim of this phenomenological study was to describe fathers' experiences of childbirth education. Ten fathers were interviewed 2-4 months after the birth of their first child. The researchers analysed the interviews. The study's findings show that childbirth education creates preparedness for birth and fatherhood, but it has a secondary role for fathers. Thus, the fathers' transition becomes more complicated due to a focus on their secondary role. The opportunity to receive information that addresses the needs and concerns of fathers, specifically, and to develop male group discussions is needed to build networks and support the transition to fatherhood.Journal of Perinatal Education, 15(2), 21-28, doi: 10.1624/105812406X107780 Keywords: expectant fathers, childbirth education, experience, transition In many western societies, men have traditionally assumed the role of breadwinner in the family. During the last few decades, however, men have been more involved in domestic labour and childcare. Fathers' participation in childbirth education and how to prepare men for fatherhood are now an interest of researchers in different countries (Draper,

Needs of fathers during labour and childbirth: A cross-sectional study

“…p = 0.004 lessons as well. 12 The study of Premberg and Lundgren showed that fathers want preparative information about the process of birth and physically support of their partner 12 ; needs that are also expressed in this study. Prenatal lessons can be attuned to different groups of fathers, regarding the influencing demographic variables on these needs.…”

“…The finding that the majority of the fathers in this study did not express a need for emotional support, may be explained by the fact that they suppress their feelings and needs during the childbearing process, as seen in the study of Premberg and Lundgren. 12 Fathers wanted to maintain focus on their partners' emotions 12 and did not disclose their feelings to their partner or to the midwives. 10 The topic of distraction was not indicated as a need by most participants of this study.…”

“…The literature shows that fathers can receive limited attention from midwives and that they are not always involved during labour and childbirth. [9][10][11][12] Fathers who are less involved can have a more negative birth experience. 11,13 When fathers feel to be left out, this can be associated with panic and helplessness.…”

Fathers' Lived Experiences of Getting to Know Their Baby While Acting as Primary Caregivers Immediately Following Birth

“…During the past decades, professional and cultural attitudes have increasingly supported the father's coaching role in being present for the woman during childbirth (Draper, 1997;Premberg & Lundgren, 2006). In many societies today, mothers and fathers share the care and responsibility for their child, and fathers more often want to be there for their newborn (Fagerskiöld, 2006;Premberg & Lundgren, 2006;Waterston & Welsh, 2006).…”

“…In many societies today, mothers and fathers share the care and responsibility for their child, and fathers more often want to be there for their newborn (Fagerskiöld, 2006;Premberg & Lundgren, 2006;Waterston & Welsh, 2006). To meet this demand, the content of antenatal care and childbirth education has been changing over time from merely focusing on women's perspectives to also involving the view of the partner (Premberg & Lundgren, 2006). Today, fathers are encouraged to participate in antenatal care, including the ultrasound examination, because this examination is described as being part of the process of becoming a parent (Ekelin, Crang-Svalenius, & Dykes, 2004).…”