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Partner childbirth: What do doctors think about men's presence during the birth of a child?

In recent years, the topic of partner-assisted childbirth has been gaining traction in Kazakhstan. However, the presence of a partner during labor sparks considerable debate and discussion. Some view it as invaluable support, while others express concerns about potential psychological effects on men and believe that childbirth is a unique experience where a husband should not be present. How has the situation evolved in our country, and what are medical professionals’ perspectives on this issue? A Tengri Life correspondent spoke with a doctor to gather expert insights.
Partner childbirth: What do doctors think about men's presence during the birth of a child?

In recent years, the topic of partner births in Kazakhstan has been gaining popularity. However, questions regarding the presence of a partner during childbirth have sparked much debate and discussion. Some see it as invaluable support, while others fear potential psychological consequences for men and believe that childbirth is a special process where a husband certainly does not belong. How has the situation changed in our country, and what do medical institutions think about it? A Tengri Life correspondent spoke with a doctor to learn the expert's opinion.

What are partner births and why is a partner needed?

Partner births refer to the process in which not only medical personnel but also a close person is present with the mother. As Jamila Isaeva, head of the maternity department at the City Perinatal Center in Almaty, explained, about 95 percent of births in their institution occur with a partner.

"The presence of a partner has a positive impact on the woman's condition. She feels more confident and calm, which positively affects the childbirth process," the doctor emphasized.

Jamila Isaeva clarified that a partner can provide various types of assistance: offering water and food, calling medical personnel if necessary, performing relaxing massages, measuring the duration of contractions and the intervals between them, accompanying during movement, and calming and supporting the woman during difficult moments. This not only alleviates physical discomfort but also creates a more comfortable atmosphere for the mother.

Photo:depositphotos.com

Who can be a partner?

Most often, husbands take on the role of the partner; however, any close person over the age of 18 can be a partner: a mother, sister, friend, or even a doula.

A doula is a professional assistant who provides physical, emotional, and informational support to a woman and her family during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. Unlike medical personnel, a doula does not perform medical procedures but helps the expectant mother feel more comfortable, confident, and calm during labor and recovery.

"It is important for the partner to be mentally and physically prepared for this process," the specialist noted.

Moreover, to participate in partner births, only a few requirements are needed: an identification document and a recent chest X-ray.

Psychological aspects of partner births: pros and cons

Despite the positive aspects, the doctor also notes potential risks. Being present at childbirth can negatively affect the psyche of some men.

"Not every man can handle this trial, especially if he is sensitive, anxious, and prone to panic. The sight of blood and the suffering of a loved one can cause him stress, which may subsequently impact intimate relationships with his partner after childbirth. Such cases are not uncommon. Therefore, there is no definitive answer to 'to be or not to be.' Couples must consider each other's desires and opinions to make a mutual decision: to experience the challenging hours of labor together or separately," explained Jamila Isaeva.

She emphasized that it is not advisable to force the future father to be present during the birth of the child. Being together does not guarantee an improvement or deterioration in marital relationships. If love and trust prevail in the family, and the decision about the father's presence is made jointly, they can peacefully enjoy this special moment while anticipating the arrival of their baby.

The doctor shared a case from her practice where partnership became a real test.

"A woman in labor arrived at our center with her husband, who initially agreed to be the partner during childbirth. Their mothers also accompanied them, both from the husband's and the woman's side. After sitting passively next to his wife for a while, the husband decided to decline the role of partner and suggested that his mother take his place. However, the woman had her own plans: as soon as her husband left the room, she invited her mother to be her partner.

Soon, I was called to the patient support service office. This woman's husband filed a complaint, claiming that his mother-in-law could not be a partner because, in his opinion, he should decide who would be present and see his child first. We tried to explain the rules of partner births to the future father, but he created a whole scene and caused a scandal. In the end, there was stress for everyone: the expectant mother, the relatives, and the medical staff. Of course, we always prioritize the opinions and desires of the woman in labor, but it's best to avoid such conflicts by discussing and mutually deciding who will be the partner well before the birth," the doctor recounted.

Photo:depositphotos.com

How has the attitude of Kazakhstanis towards partner births changed?

In recent years, the presence of husbands at births has ceased to be a rarity in Kazakhstan; however, this practice still causes disagreements. Some families see it as a way to strengthen trust, while others consider it too personal a moment that should remain between the woman and the medical staff. At the same time, the doctor notes that there is a growing understanding of the importance of psychological support for the mother, and many families are increasingly choosing partner births.

"I support the idea of partner births. However, I reiterate that not all men are ready for this process. Women should choose a partner whom they trust completely," the head of the maternity department is confident.

To ensure that the partner's presence at childbirth becomes effective support, the specialist recommends preparation. Future partners should familiarize themselves with the childbirth process to clearly understand how they can help. It is important to remember that the partner should not interfere with the work of medical personnel or make decisions on behalf of the doctor.

According to the doctor, the number of partner births in Kazakhstan continues to grow.

"We, the doctors, see many positive aspects of this practice when the woman in labor feels more confident due to the support of a loved one. Nevertheless, the choice always lies with the family, and an important criterion remains respect for the wishes and needs of all participants in the process," she noted.

Partner births, according to Isaeva, are an opportunity to share the joy of birth with a loved one, but it is essential to remember that each case is unique. The decision should be made considering all the pros and cons to ensure that the moment of birth is truly happy and memorable for all involved.