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Playing Second Fiddle Is Okay–Swedish Fathers' Experiences of Prenatal Care
Author(s) -
Jungmarker Emily Bogren,
Lindgren Helena,
Hildingsson Ingegerd
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
journal of midwifery and women's health
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.543
H-Index - 62
eISSN - 1542-2011
pISSN - 1526-9523
DOI - 10.1016/j.jmwh.2010.03.007
Subject(s) - prenatal care , psychology , nursing , medicine , developmental psychology , environmental health , population
Introduction: In Sweden, prospective fathers are encouraged and welcome to attend prenatal visits, and pregnant women assess their partners' involvement in prenatal care as very important. The aim of this study was to describe expectant fathers' experiences of and involvement in prenatal care in Sweden. Methods: Data were drawn from a 1‐year cohort study of 827 Swedish‐speaking fathers recruited during their partners' midpregnancy and followed up 2 months after childbirth. Results: The participants reported that the most important issues in prenatal care were the woman's physical and emotional well‐being and the support she received from her midwife. However, care was identified as deficient in nearly all aspects of information, medical care, and fathers' involvement. “Excessive” care was also reported and related to how the father was treated by the midwife, mainly in terms of attention to his emotional well‐being. Discussion: Although fathers prioritize the needs of their pregnant partners, it is important for caregivers to assess fathers' needs and incorporate a family‐oriented approach to prenatal care.