All-Male Childbirth Discussion Forums Better Prepare Modern-Day Dads

Through formal evaluation of an all-male childbirth class, researchers have discovered a model of education that meets the needs of modern-day fathers. The interactive forum, led by a male facilitator, allowed expectant fathers to discuss issues openly and honestly pertaining to birth and fatherhood. A six-year study published in the Journal of Perinatal Education found that class participants unanimously agreed that all-male discussion sessions would help define their role and benefit them as fathers.

After an assessment of existing male-oriented childbirth education, researchers in the Central Coast region of Australia analyzed 617 qualitative surveys given to men after completion of an all-male discussion forum on pregnancy, labor, postnatal issues and fatherhood. Results reported that 99 percent of the men felt the sessions would benefit them as fathers and nearly 100 percent felt the forum allowed for an open discussion where they could address their needs and feelings.

Participants in the all-male classes reported that the forum encouraged them to be responsible for their families, to discuss issues and concerns openly with their partners and to recognize their role as fathers. The evidence presented suggests that men who attend childbirth classes that explore their feelings about pregnancy, childbirth and parenting also tend to be more involved with their spouses and participate more with housework after their babies are born.

In contrast, current research indicates that the majority of men who attend a traditional childbirth education class, which is focused more on mothers, feel alienated. While traditional co-ed childbirth classes prepare couples for birth, they rarely focus on the father’s roles and responsibilities in parenthood.

“Without [men’s] needs being acknowledged and supported it cannot be assumed that men will be able to take on a supportive and nurturing role, especially since the father’s paternal role appears to be shaped by the labor experience,” the study notes.

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The Journal of Perinatal Education is the leading peer-reviewed journal for childbirth educators. The Journal of Perinatal Education is published quarterly by Lamaze International for readers who provide parent education in the areas of childbirth, pregnancy, breastfeeding, neonatal care, postpartum, early parenting and young family development. For more information about the Journal of Perinatal Education and Lamaze International, visit www.lamaze.org.

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