Description
Book SynopsisSince the development of modern medicine, men have become increasingly involved in childbearing as obstetricians and, more recently, as fathers. This book argues that the beneficial contribution of men has been taken for granted. Certain changes to childbearing practice have resulted, which, together with men''s involvement, have been encouraged without any reference to evidence and without adequate opportunity for reflection.
Considering the findings of recent research and wider literature, and using qualitative research with mothers the text examines:
how men became increasingly involved in childbearing
the medicalisation of childbirth
the difficulties men experience with childbirth as fathers
challenging situations, such as fathers'' grief
the taken-for-granted assumptions that men's increased contribution to childbearing is beneficial
This text will be of great interest to academics and postgraduate students of midwifery, obstetrics, medi
Table of Contents
Introduction 1. Cultures and Times 2. The Midwife and Medical Men 3. Fathers and Fatherhood 4. The Labour and the Birth 5. Becoming a Father After the Birth 6. Childbearing and Domestic Violence 7. Men and Loss in Childbearing 8. How to Help - The Midwife's Role 9. Conclusion
