Introduction

“In family life, love is the oil that eases friction, the cement that binds closer together,
and the music that brings harmony.” – Friedrich Nietzsche

The family is the core of civilization and the basic social unit of society. The journey of
familyhood starts with having a child after marriage. During pregnancy, it can be
exhausting physically and emotionally especially for women as they will experience
mood swings and morning sickness. They will need the support of their partner
particularly during birth. Some might not want to participate during childbirth and others
would happily welcome their baby and help their partner during delivery and it is
important to know what would happen on both sides. Here are the advantages and
disadvantages of delivery with the partner and it’s influence during and after childbirth.

Body

First, I’m gonna discuss the disadvantages of the partner present during the childbirth.
The pain can be more intense. Oxytocin also known as love hormone is important for
easier and less painful delivery. It stimulates contractions that help to thin and open the
cervix, move the baby down and out of the birth canal, push out the placenta and control
bleeding. The love hormone can possibly decrease if the partner is anxious of the whole
process because of less preparation and is likely less informed. 

The partner might experience depression because they start to feel powerless and
hopeless, thinking they can’t do anything to help after witnessing childbirth while other
because they cannot cope with seeing their wives in pain especially for those first time in
parenthood. These feelings and thoughts are not openly expressed. Symptoms of
depression may include weight gain/loss, headaches, fatigue, or even isolation from
friends and family. 

There are some things the partner do that can annoy their wives. On most cases, the labor
usually lasts for more than 12 hours, with the partner present, some of them may start to
use their phone or eat to kill time. They may also start to feel sleepy because of the
adrenaline rush they had while trying to get to the hospital on time. 

The advantages on the other hand, the partner will be present during the first minutes of
the baby’s life. Amidst all the uncertainties before the labor and seeing their loved one in
pain, it will turn into an unforgettable moment when they see their baby for the first time.
It’s a powerful moment, with overwhelming emotion which motivates a father to protect
his wife and child no matter what. 

The partner can help with breastfeeding from the start. Breastfeeding can be a family
affair. The mother wouldn’t want to move so she won’t interrupt the baby. The chance of
a mom breastfeeding longer becomes higher with a supportive partner. The partner can
pass a drink, add a pillow or two, burp the infant, and even give a light massage. Taking
over those duties from a breastfeeding mom can be a relief. 

The partner can give emotional and physical support. They can help their wives by
reminding her to breathe slowly, massaging her, and helping her to get more comfortable.
Always encourage and reassure her and ask her what she needs. Even the anxious talk
about meeting the baby can help in a way and improve the labor experience. 

Conclusion 

Overall, there are certain disadvantages and advantages of having the partner present
during childbirth but it can vary depending on the couple on how they cope up with the
hardships along the pregnancy stage and birth. It is important to discuss the birth plan
together to take care of her needs and wants. The better prepared you are, the easier you
will find the birth. 

Refences

https://www.smartparenting.com.ph/pregnancy/labor-and-childbirth/5-reasons-why-dads-
need-to-be-present-during-childbirth-a00041-20170524

http://www.childbirthconnection.org/maternity-care/role-of-hormones/

https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/amp/article/supporting-your-partner-during-pregnancy

https://brightside.me/inspiration-family-and-kids/10-pros-and-cons-of-having-men-present-at-
the-birth-of-their-child-798114/amp/

https://www.which.co.uk/reviews/giving-birth/article/what-is-the-role-of-a-birth-partner-
antqs6y5cIsP