A Qualitative Study on the Experiences of Fathers Involved in Vaginal Delivery: Real-Life Experiences

Purpose: The birth of a baby is one of the most meaningful moments partners can experience throughout their lives. This study was conducted to determine the emotions, thoughts, and experiences of fathers involved in vaginal delivery. 
Methods: This study was a qualitative research using phenomenological approach and theoretical thematic analysis approach was used in data analysis. The 22 couples participated in the study. The data were separately obtained from fathers involved in the delivery and their partners using the face to face in-depth interview method within four hours after delivery. 
Results: The data were categorized into five themes: emotions, thoughts, and experiences of fathers involved in delivery; purpose of involvement; positive and negative feelings, roles, and responsibilities of fathers; expectations from health professionals; and meeting the baby for the first time. The fathers who were confused when they first entered the delivery room experienced ambivalent feelings, especially during the last phases of the active period and the expulsion phase. 
Conclusion: Fathers should be involved in the childbirth process so that the parents can experience a favourable childbirth experience, the relationship between partners strengthens, the family life is affected positively, and the newborns are born into an environment in which they feel safe.