Masculine Maternity

Introduction The role of fathers in pregnancy and childbirth has evolved significantly over the years. Gone are the days when fathers were mere bystanders, waiting nervously outside the delivery room. Today, they are expected—and often eager—to be active participants throughout the pregnancy journey, offering emotional, physical, and practical support. However, stepping into this role can be both rewarding and overwhelming. This guide explores how modern fathers can navigate pregnancy and birth with confidence, compassion, and involvement. 1. Embracing the Emotional and Mental Shift Understanding Your Emotional Role Pregnancy brings about a whirlwind of emotions—not only for the mother but also for the father. As you anticipate the arrival of your child, you may experience excitement, anxiety, and even self-doubt. It’s essential to acknowledge and express these emotions while being a source of strength for your partner. Offer Steady Emotional Support Listen and valid...

When I started my journey as a midwife, one question kept coming up: “As a man, can you truly understand what women go through during pregnancy and childbirth?” At first, I wasn’t sure how to answer. But as I worked with more patients, I learned an important truth—empathy goes beyond gender. It’s not about experiencing the same pain; it’s about listening, caring, and meeting people where they are. In this post, I’ll share how empathy helps us connect with maternity patients and why it’s a skill anyone in healthcare can develop, regardless of gender. The Heart of Maternity Care: Empathy Pregnancy and childbirth are deeply emotional experiences. Each patient comes with unique concerns, fears, and expectations. While I’ll never personally experience labor pains, I can still provide comfort, reassurance, and support by putting myself in my patients’ shoes. Active Listening: One of the simplest ways to show empathy is to listen. I pay attention to every concern, whether it’s about physical ...

In the early morning light, Chuka stood by the window of the small maternity ward in Lagos, Nigeria, watching the sun rise over the bustling city. His wife, Ngozi, was resting after an exhausting night, the soft hum of the hospital monitors accompanying the rhythm of her steady breathing. It was a moment of peace, but Chuka couldn’t shake the feeling that there was more he could do. Though he had always been there for Ngozi, his involvement had been largely passive. Now, with the birth of their first child drawing near, he was realizing just how vital it was for him to take a more active role in the entire process of maternity care. The Journey of Awareness in Nigeria In many Nigerian communities, maternity care is seen as a woman’s responsibility, with men often taking a backseat. Cultural norms and long-standing traditions have led to a perception that childbirth and pregnancy are realms best left to women and medical professionals. However, as Chuka stood in the ward, he recognized ...