Should dads be at the birth?

Leading obstetrician, Michel Odent, says the father’s presence at the birth can lead to his partner needing a caesarean delivery, marriage break-up or mental illness in this weekend’s Observer (18 October).

Michel Odent, a childbirth specialist, also believes the mother-to-be’s labour can be longer, more painful and more complicated because she senses his anxiety and becomes nervous. Next month, Odent will discuss his views at the Royal College of Midwives’ annual conference.

Mary Newburn, Head of Research and Information, NCT, says,

“The NCT believes it’s important that women in labour are given support throughout so they can feel calm, relaxed and reassured. For most women, this means they would like to have some sort of birth companion with them, whether it’s the father, doula, friend or all three.

“Many women feel that having their partner or father of the child present at the birth will enable them to feel calm, secure and supported during the birth.

“However, some women feel that having their partner at the birth will not lead to a calm atmosphere and would prefer them not to be present. Or some partners will not feel comfortable themselves in providing physical and emotional support during labour.

“So, if both parents agree, it can be great for women if their partners are present. For many fathers being present at the birth allows them the opportunity to bond with their new baby and to feel a part of the new baby’s life from the start. Otherwise mothers-to-be should talk about who they would like as their birth companion during labour.”

---

Possibly related posts: (automatically generated)

• Women being denied labour beds to give birth
• NCT response to Swansea University research relating to drugs in labour and…
• Dutch study finds home birth is safe
• Fathers at Their Children’s Births