Proposed Topic (Most preferred): :
Enhancing Partnership with Patients and Community (Projects initiated to engage patients / carers / community to improve efficiency / quality of care)
Proposed Topic (Second preferred): :
Clinical Safety and Quality Service III (Projects aiming at quality service to patients and their carers)
Authors (including presenting author) :
CHOI PS Alice (1), AU YEUNG Elce (1)
Affiliation :
(1) School of Midwifery, PWH
Introduction :
Historically, pregnancy and childbirth have predominantly been a female affair. However, there is a growing recognition of the importance of involving fathers in this significant life event. Father-friendly antenatal education program aims to support and empower fathers from pregnancy to early parenthood. Researches have shown that involving fathers in pregnancy and childbirth has numerous benefits, including enhancing father-child bonding, strengthening couple’s relationships, promoting shared decision-making, and contributing to positive birth experiences for women.
Objectives :
Our objective is to highlight the importance of fathers' involvement in the family and emphasize the benefits of a father-friendly antenatal education program in promoting stronger attachment and commitment to parenthood. We aim to demonstrate how such a program can provide invaluable opportunities for men to gain insights into pregnancy and newborn care, enhancing their overall birthing experience and fostering a sense of shared responsibility. Additionally, the article seeks to emphasize that fathers, equipped with confidence and knowledge, are better prepared to actively engage in caring for their newborns and adapt to the demands of parenthood.
Methodology :
A father-friendly antenatal education program with hands-on skills is initiated for expectant parents. Pamphlets are distributed in the antenatal clinic, and recruitment takes place during the women’s antenatal checkups. Interested couples can enroll via a QR code on the posters. The program consists of five sessions, each comprising both theory and practical components. Practical sessions are specifically designed to be father-friendly, encouraging fathers to learn and return demonstrate in activities such as childbirth massage, baby massage, baby bathing, and assisting in breastfeeding. Teaching video clips and content summaries are provided to the couples after each session for further practice at home. Additionally, the program also reinforces the psychological aspects of parenting to promote family bonding beyond the hospital setting.
Result & Outcome :
Since 4 March, 2023, we have organized seven series of five-session father-friendly antenatal education program, enrolling a total of 212 expectant parents. Evaluations have been overwhelmingly positive, with the fathers providing invaluable feedback. Fathers particularly enjoyed activities especially baby bathing, which helped them to relieve paternal stress in anticipating newborn care. The baby massage component was also highly appreciated, with the provided video serving as a useful guide for real-life practice.
