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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 time is often viewed from the mother's perspective. In this study, we highlight the challenges faced by fathers.

Background

The transition to parenthood 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 phase, 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 phase. 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 project aims to contribute to family-centered care by developing recommendations for peripartum care that include the fathers' perspective. We want to analyze the care provided by health professionals from the fathers' perspective, examine the contribution of midwives and other health professionals to the well-being of the family and identify key points of interaction where interventions to strengthen the mental health of fathers can be particularly helpful.

Method

Phase One
Qualitative guideline-based individual and focus group interviews will be conducted with men who have become fathers in the last three years. In addition, expert interviews with professionals from various occupational groups are planned in order to record their experiences and perceptions of peripartum healthcare. These interviews will provide in-depth insights into the individual experiences and needs of fathers.


Enough participants have now been found for the interviews. Participation is no longer possible.

Thank you

for your participation!

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Phase Two
In this phase, the journey mapping method is used to visualize fathers' experiences in the healthcare system and identify challenges, gaps, barriers and opportunities. In a co-design workshop with experts and fathers, we develop initial solutions to improve peripartum care, which are then refined in an iterative process. Finally, in a deliver workshop with experts, concrete recommendations for action are formulated that could be helpful in the peripartum care of fathers.

Phase Three
The evidence-based implementation and further development of a systemic, family-centered care model in the peripartum period is to be promoted through publications and the dissemination of results in interprofessional networks.

Benefits

The research project provides new insights into the needs and well-being of fathers in the peripartum period in Switzerland, which can contribute to improving healthcare. It identifies factors of care that influence the well-being of fathers and their families. Measures to improve the quality of peripartum care are derived from this. The study contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of fathers' peripartum health and promotes the development of a family-centered care model.

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