School of Health Sciences

Mental health for fathers in the peripartum period (VIP-GUIDE)

The birth of a child is an unforgettable experience - for both parents. Traditionally, this period is often viewed from the mother's perspective. In this study, we explored the challenges fathers face during pregnancy and childbirth (peripartum period), with a particular focus on their mental health.

Background

The transition to parenthood – the peripartum period – is challenging for both parents and can have an impact on mental health. Traditionally, the focus of peripartum care has been on the mother, while the needs of fathers are often overlooked.

International studies show that fathers are often not sufficiently considered during this period, which can lead to unrecognized psychological stress and subsequently affect the child's development and the well-being of the entire family system. Healthcare professionals, especially midwives, play a crucial role in supporting families during this period. In Switzerland, however, there has been little research into the needs of fathers in the peripartum period and their experiences with the healthcare system.

Objectives

The aim of the project was to contribute to family-centred care by developing evidence-based recommendations for peripartum care that include the fathers' perspective.

Methods

Phase One
We conducted qualitative guideline-based individual and focus group interviews with men who had become fathers in the past three years. In addition, we carried out expert interviews with professionals from various occupational groups to record their experiences and perceptions of peripartum healthcare. These interviews provided in-depth insights into the individual experiences and needs of fathers.

Phase Two
In the second phase, we used the journey mapping method to visualise fathers' experiences in the healthcare system and to identify challenges, gaps, barriers and opportunities. Building on this, we developed initial solutions to improve peripartum care during a co-design workshop involving experts and fathers. These solutions were then refined in an iterative process. Finally, we formulated concrete recommendations for action in a deliver workshop with experts.

Phase Three
The findings were shared through publications and dissemination in interprofessional networks. This way, we promote the evidence-based implementation and further development of a systemic, family-centred care model during the peripartum period.

Findings

The findings of the qualitative study reveal recurring patterns of emotional ambivalence, uncertainty and stress, but also a wide range of resources such as support from partners, knowledge-building and resilient coping strategies. The way in which professionals shape relationships is of central importance: fathers find that being involved, clear communication and opportunities to take on roles have a stabilising effect, whilst marginalising interactions undermine their well-being.

Overall, the VIP-Guide study highlights that fathers’ needs have so far been taken into account only to a limited extent within the healthcare system, and that structural and communicative barriers remain. The prototypes developed through co-design with fathers and professionals demonstrate practical starting points for a more father-sensitive approach to perinatal care. These include improved information and communication processes, clearer involvement at key care interfaces, and support services that take into account the specific range of psychosocial needs of fathers.

Building on these findings, a follow-up research project is planned in which a selected care approach will be piloted and scientifically evaluated.

Publications

No publications on the requested topic have been found.

Project organisation

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Funding