Abstract

Objective: This study sought to investigate the perspectives of fathers on their experience of pregnancy and the post-partum period, with the aim of identifying the types of information and guidance most needed by men to enable them to approach fatherhood in an informed and prepared manner.

Methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional, and descriptive design was employed. A sample of male partners of women who had given birth in the Coombe Women and Infants University Hospital four to seven months prior to the study were posted a questionnaire on the transition to, and experience of, fatherhood. Closed-ended and open-endedquestionswere used. Sociodemographic data were also obtained, to include parity, age, nationality, marital status, educational attainment and employment status. Data were analysed in SPSS.

Results: Five hundred and eighty-three fathers participated (42% response rate). Mean age was 35.9 (SD ± 4.7) years. Most were Irish (97.1%, n566), college-educated (69.3%, n404), married (85.6%, n499), employed (91.1%, n530), and had at least one other child (61.6%, n359). The most common topics on which men wanted guidance during pregnancy included supporting a partner’s emotional wellbeing and their role during labour. Data categorised from open-ended questions highlighted that challenges in the post-partum period included: physical challenge of sleep deprivation; instances of feeling overwhelmed; challenges to the parenting partnership; navigating a new family structure; and, a lack of practical support.

Conclusion: Tailored solution-focused guidance is needed for men as they transition to fatherhood. Future research should investigate the views of younger fathers and fathers from more disadvantaged backgrounds.

Keywords: Pregnancy; Post-partum period; Labour; Healthcare