Men differ in their amount of involvement and participation, and many are now much more actively involved than their fathers were.
Meeting and discussing common concerns with other expectant couples can be reassuring and may assist you in developing support networks for your parenting years.
As pregnancy, birth and parenting are physically and emotionally demanding, preparation is essential. Knowledge and understanding of what is involved, and being able to recognise your partner’s needs, will increase your confidence and help you to give her invaluable support. All this can be achieved by attending childbirth education classes.
You need to decide whether you will be present in the delivery room for the birth. In some cultures, the father’s presence at the birth is discouraged. Some fathers dislike feeling helpless as they witness their partner in pain. They feel apprehensive and scared of fainting or getting sick, or being negatively affected by the sight of the birth. Most fathers who are adequately prepared find it a most moving experience, which they would not have missed.
To learn more about the father’s role during birth, click here.
Consult a childbirth educator or childbirth associations for more information.
Related articles
Food choices for a healthy pregnancy
-
5 mins to read
Labour
As labour starts, a mother’s mood changes and she becomes less aware of what is happening outside her body, and more aware of what is happening inside her body.
5 mins to read
Nutrition during pregnancy
By taking responsibility for your body, you can maximise your level of wellbeing and enjoy good health.
Good nutrition is of the utmost importance during your pregnancy
5 mins to read
The third stage of labour
This stage lasts from the birth of the baby until the placenta is delivered, usually from 5–20 minutes.
5 mins to read
Personal considerations
You may need to consider some personal issues before you become pregnant.
1 min to read
Checklist - maternity ward suitcase
*Check whether the maternity ward has a list of the items you will need.
Items for hospital stay
5 mins to read
Medication for pain relief
In a normal, uncomplicated labour and delivery, the use of medication is not always necessary. Your own resources are often enough.
5 mins to read
Second Trimester
Physical changes
4 mins to read
Checklist - preparing to bring baby home
Clothing
5 mins to read
Signs of labour
The following signs of labour may occur in any order.
1. Progressive contractions
5 mins to read
Third trimester
Physical changes
5 mins to read
Prenatal Checklist
Preparing for your prenatal appointments is important. Find out our prenatal checklist, so you can ask the right questions to your healthcare provider.
1 min to read
Siblings
Older siblings learn about sharing, life-long love and friendship.
2 mins to read
Caesarean birth
A Caesarean birth is the delivery of your baby through an abdominal uterine incision, instead of vaginally.
5 mins to read
Screening tests
Screening ultrasound scan
2 mins to read
Single parent
Today an increasing number of women are facing the challenges of pregnancy, birth and parenthood alone. This may be through personal choice or circumstantial.
2 mins to read
Variations and interventions in labour and birth
Each woman’s labour is unique and unpredictable. It is important therefore that you are prepared for all the possible eventualities and you keep an open mind.
1 min to read
Second stage of labour
This stage begins when the cervix reaches complete dilation and effacement, and it ends with the birth of the baby.
5 mins to read
Vaginal birth
In most instances, the baby’s head is the presenting part that moves into your pelvis before labour begins.
5 mins to read