Asian women's experience of childbirth in East London: The support of fathers and female relatives

Abstract

Thirty-two Asian women were interviewed about their experiences of childbirth and about the roles of fathers and female relatives at birth and in the post-natal period. In general women accepted the medical management of childbirth. Even though almost all the marriages were arranged, the majority of fathers were present for at least some of the labour and delivery and women valued their help and support. Viewing birth as an event to be shared by the couple rather than the family contrasts with traditional woman-centred practices. Fathers played a less active role post-natally. Women who were supported by their female relatives could rest and were not required to engage in taboo activities. Many women were not living with their in-laws and looked to their own families or to friends for support, although almost a fifth were isolated. The influence of women's living situations and fluency in English on their experiences of childbirth are discussed.