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

Alka Kothari1,2, Alvin Khuu1,2, Joel Dulhunty1,2

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Redcliffe Hospital, Redcliffe, Queensland, Australia.

The Australian & New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
|May 5, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Most fathers plan to attend childbirth due to personal and moral reasons, with high intentions to be present. While most feel supported, they desire improved communication, mental health resources, and better planning for future antenatal visits.

Area of Science:

  • Perinatal Health
  • Maternal and Child Health
  • Sociology of Health

Background:

  • Limited research exists on fathers' perspectives, intentions, and needs before childbirth.
  • Understanding these factors is crucial for comprehensive perinatal care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate factors influencing fathers' intention to attend childbirth.
  • To identify the needs and support systems required by expectant fathers.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 203 prospective fathers.
  • Participants were recruited from antenatal appointments at a public teaching hospital in Brisbane, Australia.

Main Results:

  • Nearly all fathers (99%) intended to attend the birth, motivated by responsibility, protectiveness, love, and a sense of duty.
  • While most fathers felt well-supported, areas for improvement include better communication, mental health support, and clearer plans for future antenatal visits.
  • A small percentage reported feeling pressured by partners, society, or cultural expectations to attend.

Conclusions:

  • Fathers' intention to attend childbirth is primarily driven by personal and moral convictions.
  • Enhancing support through improved clinician communication, mental health services, and structured antenatal care planning can further benefit expectant fathers.
  • Addressing the needs of fathers is essential for optimizing the childbirth experience for the entire family.
Abstract

Keywords:
antenatal classchildbirthfatherintentionsurvey

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