The Expectations of Fathers Concerning Care Provided by Midwives to the Mothers during Labour

Midwives have been criticised for neglecting the expectations and needs of fathers. They either ignore the fathers or pressure them into becoming more involved than they would choose; if allowed to provide support to the mothers during labour. Whilst midwives are providing woman-centred care; it is important that they remember to involve the fathers in decision-making and to acknowledge their role; expectations and needs; because the birth of a child is one of the most important events in a person's lifetime. This study focused on fathers' expectations of the care provided to mothers by the midwives during labour. A qualitative; explorative; descriptive and contextual study design was utilised. In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with fathers about the care provided to their partners or wives by midwives. Data were then analysed with an open descriptive method of coding that is appropriate for qualitative research. The results of the interviews were subsequently positioned within a holistic health-promotive nursing theory that encompassed body; mind and spirit. The results revealed that fathers saw the provision of comfort and support as the two main aspects for mothers in labour that they expected from midwives. The findings were that midwives should improve their communication skills with the mothers; as well as with the fathers if they are available. Fathers expected midwives to encourage them to accompany the mother during labour and to facilitate bonding between father; mother and baby. The results of this study should assist midwives to provide holistic quality care to mothers and fathers during labour

Birth preparedness, complication readiness and fathers' participation in maternity care in a northern nigerian community

The role of men in maternity care in Africa is understudied, despite their economic dominance and decision making power. In a patriarchal society like northern Nigeria, pregnancy and childbirth are often regarded as exclusively women's affairs. Using data from interviewer administered questionnaires and in-depth interviews; we assessed birth preparedness, complication readiness and male participation in maternity care in Ungogo, a northern Nigerian community. Majority of pregnancies were unplanned (96%). Only 32.1% of men ever accompanied their spouses for maternity care. There was very little preparation for skilled assistance during delivery (6.2%), savings for emergencies (19.5%) or transportation during labour (24.2%). Young paternal age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] =1.5, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.2-2.6), formal education (AOR=1.9, 95%CI=1.1-3.4) and non-Hausa Fulani ethnicity (AOR=2.3, 95%CI=1.4-3.3) were independent predictors of male participation in maternity care. There is a need to increase involvement of men in their partner's maternity care through peer-led, culturally-sensitive community education and appropriate health system reforms (Afr J Reprod Health 2010; 14[1]:21-32)