The psychological impact of birth trauma on fathers: a narrative review

Journal article

Ellis, Josh and Wier, Jacqueline 2025. The psychological impact of birth trauma on fathers: a narrative review. British Journal of Midwifery. 33 (1), pp. 22-31. https://doi.org/10.12968/bjom.2024.0052
AuthorsEllis, Josh and Wier, Jacqueline
Abstract

Background/Aims
There is a paucity of evidence on how birth trauma can affect the mental health of fathers. This review aimed to determine the common psychological effects of witnessing traumatic events during birth for fathers.

Methods
A narrative literature review of primary research and literature reviews was conducted using the British Nursing Index, CINAHL, Maternity and Infant Care, PubMed and EBSCO. A total of 6 research articles were included.

Results
Data analysis generated three themes: toxic masculinity: the role of fathers in the birthing environment; unpreparedness: expectation vs reality; and relationships with partner and others.

Conclusions
Traumatic events during labour and birth can have a profound impact on both mother and father. Fathers may experience poor mental health in the perinatal period, which can impact their relationship with their partner and the baby. It was noted that some healthcare professionals were more supportive than others. Effective communication is essential to quality care provision, which should help to manage poor paternal mental health in the perinatal period.

Implications for practice
Services are needed to identify and address poor mental health in the perinatal period for both mothers and fathers. Antenatal education should include information about all potential outcomes during labour and birth. More healthcare professionals are needed with expertise in mental health, including the ability to assess and refer to specialist services where necessary.

KeywordsBirth trauma; Fathers; Psychological impact
Year2025
JournalBritish Journal of Midwifery
Journal citation33 (1), pp. 22-31
PublisherMark Allen Group
ISSN0969-4900
2052-4307
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.12968/bjom.2024.0052
Official URLhttps://www.magonlinelibrary.com/doi/abs/10.12968/bjom.2024.0052?checkFormatAccess=true
Publication dates
Print02 Jan 2025
Publication process dates
Accepted09 Sep 2024
Deposited06 Jan 2025
Accepted author manuscript
License
File Access Level
Open
Output statusPublished
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Accepted author manuscript
Literature Review Manuscript BJOM Sept 2024 .pdf
License: CC BY-NC 4.0
File access level: Open

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