What role should fathers play in childbirth and pregnancy?

Background Paternal involvement in pregnancy and childbirth is an important consideration for healthcare professionals, but dealing with the roles and needs of expectant fathers is something that has gained little attention. Men feel pressure to attend the birth of their children without a clear idea as to what their role should be. There are three reasons why men may have a legitimate interest in attending their child’s birth: their role as a maternal advocate, their position as an autonomous agent and as a responsible father. These reasons show a father’s interest is legitimate, but fall short of fleshing out what his role is and what it ought to be.