Forgotten fathers in pregnancy and obstetrics

Dr Alka Kothari is researching the role of fathers in maternity care

Associate Professor Alka Kothari has been researching the role of fathers in obstetrics for nearly ten years. An obstetrician at Redcliffe Hospital, Dr Kothari is now concluding her PhD research on the role of fathers as consumers of obstetric and midwifery services.

Dr Kothari says that while fathers are essential stakeholders in obstetric healthcare, there is limited information on their health role in preconception, pregnancy and postpartum periods.

“A father’s pregnancy experience significantly impacts their mental health and has implications for the health of the family unit as a whole,” Dr Kothari said.

Dr Kothari says her research has brought together the available evidence base, identified gaps in the literature, created new knowledge and proposed areas for future research.

“Overall, the available research recommends a stronger emphasis on preconception care of fathers, including mental health screening,” she said.

“Traumatic events, such as life-threatening maternal complications, foetal death or stillbirth, have substantial psychological and physical impacts on fathers.”

Dr Kothari said the research is compelling for providing compassionate care to fathers during pregnancy, especially after extenuating events.

“This approach may assist in preventing long-term consequences on fathers, partners, and their children.”