First-time fathers' experiences during childbirth

Abstract

The study aimed to explore first-time fathers' experiences during childbirth. The objectives of this study were to explore the fathers' feelings and to identify the fathers' views about the support they received during childbirth. To achieve these objectives, a self-administered, structured questionnaire was utilised. Thirty Maltese first-time fathers were recruited by convenience sampling. Participants had become first-time fathers in the previous three days, were over the age of eighteen years and their partner /wife had given birth by normal vaginal delivery. A response rate of 73.1% was obtained. Data was analyzed manually using descriptive statistics. Findings showed that first-time fathers seemed keen to attend the childbirth event. The overall experience of childbirth was a positive one, and fathers were satisfied with the support offered by the midwife during childbirth. Some were frustrated or helpless with the inadequate information provided by the midwife. However, they felt able to help, mostly because they felt that their presence made it easier for the wife to cope during childbirth. Moreover, they felt love and grateful to their wife, an event which has enabled to strengthen the relationship between them. Results were discussed and compared to similar studies presented in the literature review. Recommendations include the need for antenatal classes to educate well the fathers present; midwives need to be sensitive to fathers' needs and offer continuous support, whilst keeping fathers informed during childbirth. Moreover, this study could be repeated on a larger scale or making use of qualitative methods. This will help to further increase the awareness of fathers' needs amongst midwifery staff and students.