Edinburgh Napier University

  Aim
To explore factors that influence fathers’ experiences of childbirth and implications for their subsequent postnatal mental health.

Background
Fathers who attend the birth of their baby often have very rewarding experiences. However, those who witness a difficult birth may progress to develop subsequent mental health problems, e.g., trauma symptoms that can affect future relationships with partner and infant.

Method
A narrative systematic review of literature was carried out. Two overarching themes were identified, each with 3 underpinning sub-themes: (1) Interpersonal relationships with maternity care professionals; (1b) Communication; (1b) Feeling isolated during labour; (1c) Being prepared; (2) The aftermath; (2a) Support provision; (2b) Effects on relationships; (2c) Psychological trauma.

Conclusions
Findings emphasise that good communication between fathers and midwives is a fundamental part of providing excellent care before, during and post-childbirth, as it can reduce partners’ feelings of isolation, improve their relationships and limit development and impact of psychological trauma.

Recommendations for practice
It is important to develop more on-line partner sites, parenthood education programmes and support groups, which include education about how to prevent, recognise, support and treat mental health complications. Also, further in-depth qualitative studies would enhance understanding of specific aspects of labour that traumatise fathers.