Factors influencing first-time fathers’ involvement in their wives' pregnancy and childbirth; descriptive cross-sectional study at a selected maternity hospital, Sri Lanka

Introduction: Pregnancy is a significant phase, bringing both pleasure and stress to women. Balancing these aspects is crucial for the well-being of both the mother and the developing baby. A partner’s involvement during a pregnancy is multidimensional, encompassing emotional, practical, and active support throughout the prenatal, labour, and postpartum periods. This comprehensive involvement not only strengthens the bond between partners but also contributes to better health outcomes for both the mother and the baby. This study determined the first-time fathers’ involvement during pregnancy and childbirth, assessed the informational support they received, and explored the factors influencing their level of involvement.Methods: We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study at the obstetric wards of De Zoya Maternal Hospital (DMH) on a convenient sample of 200 first-time fathers. The study setting was the obstetric wards of DMH. Data were collected through a pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire, including the validated "Father's Involvement in Pregnancy and Childbirth" instrument with the author's permission. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics.Results: Most participants (76.5%, n=153) were 22–31 years of age, all were employed, with a majority (57%, n=114) working an 8-hour shift daily. Additionally, 84.5% (n=169) attended antenatal education sessions. Results indicated varying levels of involvement; poor (11.5%, n=23), moderate (50%, n=100), and good (38.5%, n=77). Factors significantly impacting involvement included working hours per day and attendance at antenatal education sessions.Conclusions: Given the suboptimal involvement observed, interventions addressing associated factors are necessary to enhance fathers' participation in their partners' pregnancy and childbirth.