Expectant dads may mean well – but they’re not really up to the task of supporting their women during labor, a new study reveals.
Moms-to-be who have ongoing help from a female birthing professional, as opposed to their male partners, are less likely to need a Caesarean or painkillers, scientists at the University of Toronto say.
Their research counters accepted wisdom that fathers should always be present at birth.
The study also says women who have people who understand the birthing process with them through their labor – such as mothers, sisters and female friends – have an “overall more positive” experience than those accompanied by the father.
“My bottom line is that women need and deserve close and continuous support in labor in an environment that is supportive,” Professor Elaine Hodnett, who led the study, told London’s Daily Mail.