Comparison of paternal and maternal factors on intended paternal childbirth participation in southern Taiwan

Abstract

Objective

To identify prenatal predictors for paternal childbirth participation in Taiwan.

Background

In recent years, certain hospitals in Taiwan have opened the delivery room to expectant fathers, to enable their involvement in the childbirth process. Although studies have revealed that paternal participation during labour yields positive outcomes, the specific characteristics of couples who wish for childbirth participation have not been identified.

Method

This cross-sectional study recruited 199 couples from a medical centre in Southern Taiwan. Structured questionnaires on socio-demographic characteristics, desire for paternal childbirth participation, social support and marital intimacy were administered to expectant mothers and their husbands in the 36th week of pregnancy.

Results

More than 80% of both expectant mothers and fathers expressed a preference for paternal childbirth participation. Logistic regression analyses showed that women with a bachelor’s degree or higher were most likely to prefer paternal childbirth participation. Husbands with a bachelor’s degree or higher and those who perceived greater marital intimacy and greater support from healthcare professionals were most likely to prefer to participate in the childbirth process.

Conclusion

This study revealed that most couples preferred paternal childbirth participation. Education level was a predictor of prenatal couples’ preference for paternal childbirth participation. Health care practitioners can effectively assess couples who desire paternal childbirth participation, and provide support to fit their needs.

Keywords:

• childbirth participation
• couples
• delivery room
• marital intimacy
• social support