It is a fact that childbirth is an entirely female process that depends entirely on the mother in order to happen, but it is also true that there are many fathers who participate throughout the pregnancy, providing support and taking care of their partner so that the pregnancy goes as well as possible. We cannot fail to highlight that this feeling of safety at this moment is a very important role. A question that arises, then, is whether the father’s involvement in childbirth can also help him feel calmer and more capable of helping the woman. To address this topic, it is important to discuss the role each person should play during pregnancy, the real impact that an outsider can have on childbirth, and the father’s rights at this moment.
What Is the Man’s Role During Pregnancy?
This is mentioned little, but the man’s role during pregnancy is often fundamental and can directly influence the woman’s health. The partner, for instance, can provide mental support to the woman, help her cope with frustrations, fears, disappointments, and all the anxiety that comes with pregnancy, so that she doesn’t internalize these feelings and doesn’t turn these psychological issues into a problem. It is also the partner’s role to notice when the pregnant woman is pushing herself too hard physically, and step in to perform various tasks to prevent her from overexerting herself and to conserve her energy, assisting her as much as possible. All the companionship, attention, and emotional support the man offers during his partner’s pregnancy contribute to a smoother and healthier pregnancy for both the woman and the baby.
Birth Companion Law
Since 2005, there has been a law in place that allows the presence of a companion throughout labor and delivery. Many people are unaware of this law or don’t know exactly how it works, and that’s why sometimes the father doesn’t participate in the birth. This is Law 11.108, from April 7, 2005. Some facts are: All hospitals and maternity wards are required to accept this companion, who must be chosen by the pregnant woman before labor begins. There is also no requirement for a family relationship or bond, meaning the woman does not have to be married to her partner if she wants him in the delivery room. There are cases in which hospitals do not respect this law or try to argue against it to prevent other people from being in the delivery room. It is precisely because some places act this way that it is important for you to be aware of the law and to demand that your partner be with you during labor if that is your wish. The hospital needs to know that it is required to allow it and you need to show that you understand how the law works. Often, this is the only way to ensure you are not alone at this sensitive time.
The Father’s Presence at Birth Really Makes a Difference
Everything that helps keep a woman calmer and more confident during childbirth is beneficial. Therefore, if the husband has been present throughout the pregnancy, has fulfilled his role as emotional support, and knows how to be there for the woman, it’s clear that his presence at the moment of birth will make a big difference, because with him, the woman won’t just feel more confident. The father’s role in childbirth is to help the woman be less anxious and stressed, which makes a big difference at such an important and delicate time when the woman needs to maintain full control. As we’ve said before, the father’s role can be fundamental and this all starts during pregnancy. The father’s support only at the time of childbirth probably won’t make as much of a difference, since all the support given during pregnancy is what forges that connection that gives the woman strength and confidence. 
How Can the Father Help After Childbirth?
And just as the father’s role is important before and during childbirth, in the postnatal period he can also play a key part. The emotional bond that the couple builds needs to be consolidated so they can act together after the baby arrives. In addition to matters that directly concern the baby, it is also necessary to consider the mother’s recovery, that is, how much she can exert herself physically, how long she can hold the baby, how much time she needs alone to take care of basic things like eating well and bathing, among many others. These may seem like simple things, but without the father’s help, they can become very difficult, and it’s at this time that his presence can be so important.
What If the Couple Is Separated?
Even when the couple is separated, it’s still possible to build that connection and for the father to be a good companion during pregnancy and childbirth. For that, a lot of respect from both sides is needed. This way, the man can help with whatever is necessary so the woman has a healthy pregnancy and also be a great partner at the time of birth, if the woman wants, of course. Sometimes this is not possible, since separation involves many other issues, but a man should still care for the woman who is carrying his child, whether she is his wife or not. It also depends on him whether the child will come into the world well, and he can make a difference. The father not only has the right to see his child born but also has the duty to be by the mother’s side and to take an active role in raising the child in every aspect, even if the couple is not together. It is important and healthy for the child to always have both parents involved, and of course, it’s very important for the parents, too. That is why the father’s involvement in childbirth is just the beginning of his role in the child’s and the woman’s life, and he should always be present, in one way or another. So, value the involvement of both parents at every stage, from pregnancy to the child’s growth. In the end, that’s what makes the difference. See also: Postpartum Depression in Fathers – Does It Happen? Photo: Airman 1st Class George Goslin
