Recent media attention has highlighted different opinions relating to the presence of fathers during labour and delivery. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) encourages the presence of a supportive partner during labour and delivery.
The presence of a father, birth partner or family member can help to improve women’s birth experience by providing emotional support and reassurance during labour and delivery. While unexpected emergencies may arise, for many couples, birth can be a very positive experience.
The RCOG supports women’s choices in relation to childbirth. As individual preferences may vary, pregnant women and couples are encouraged to discuss birth plans and to make arrangements that they will feel most comfortable with.
24 November 2009