Australian Fathers' Study: What Influences Paternal Engagement With Antenatal Care?
The Journal of Perinatal Education
|February 3, 2016
Summary
Most fathers (83%) are disengaged from antenatal care. Lack of engagement is linked to long work hours and poor communication from staff. Involving fathers in consultations can improve paternal engagement.
Area of Science:
- Maternal and Child Health
- Public Health
- Sociology of Health
Background:
- Paternal engagement in antenatal care is crucial for maternal and child well-being.
- Limited research exists on the factors influencing fathers' participation in antenatal services.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the levels of paternal engagement in antenatal care.
- To identify factors associated with fathers' engagement or lack thereof in antenatal care.
Main Methods:
- Mixed-methods approach combining quantitative (validated questionnaires) and qualitative data.
- Recruitment of 100 expectant fathers from antenatal clinics and community settings in Western Australia.
Main Results:
- A significant majority (83%) of expectant fathers reported low engagement with antenatal care.
- Key factors associated with lack of engagement included working over 40 hours weekly and inadequate consultation by antenatal care staff.
- Qualitative themes revealed barriers such as time pressures, lack of knowledge, feeling unprepared, and limited role in decision-making.
Conclusions:
- Paternal engagement in antenatal care is suboptimal, influenced by work demands and healthcare provider interactions.
- Addressing time pressures, enhancing communication, and involving fathers in decision-making are vital for improving engagement.
- Healthcare providers should actively involve fathers in consultations to foster greater participation and support positive birth outcomes.
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