First-time fathers' coping strategies at elective cesarean delivery: A quantitative study

Area of Science:

• Perinatal Psychology
• Men's Health
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• Limited research exists on first-time fathers' coping mechanisms during elective cesarean delivery.
• Existing studies primarily focus on fathers' experiences during vaginal birth.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess and compare the coping strategies of first-time fathers during elective cesarean delivery versus scheduled induced labor.
• To identify specific coping strategies employed by fathers in different birth scenarios.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative research design.
• Utilized the Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations (CISS) to measure coping strategies.
• Surveyed 52 fathers (28 first-time) for elective cesarean and 54 fathers (25 first-time) for induced labor.

Main Results:

• First-time fathers at elective cesarean delivery showed significantly higher Avoidance-oriented coping (50.93 ± 12.80) compared to those at induced labor (40.71 ± 9.38).
• Avoidance-oriented coping in this group was strongly correlated with social interaction and distraction-based avoidance.
• Avoidance-oriented coping was the most prominent strategy, at the 82nd percentile.

Conclusions:

• First-time fathers facing elective cesarean delivery exhibit distinct and elevated Avoidance-oriented coping strategies.
• Social interaction and distraction are key components of Avoidance-oriented coping for fathers in this context.
• Findings highlight the need for tailored support for fathers during cesarean births.