News
Fathers allowed to witness childbirth and offer emotional support
View(s):By Hafsa Sabry
Gone are the days when fathers-to-be anxiously paced the corridors of the Castle Street Hospital for Women. In a groundbreaking move, the hospital is welcoming husbands into the delivery room in recognition of the invaluable emotional support they provide during birthing.
Emotionally supporting the mother-to-be during labour is crucial, as it can be a challenging and lengthy process, said Dr. Ajith Kumara Danthanarayana, the hospital director. “Some even take 10 hours into their labour. So that is a significant reason we initiated this programme in the first place, where they can receive the emotional support they deserve from their husbands.”
A study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology found that women with partners present during labour reported lower levels of anxiety and perceived stress compared with those who did not. The emotional support provided by fathers can help mothers cope better with the challenges of childbirth.
New chapter at Castle Street Hospital: Welcoming husbands into delivery room. Pic by Akila Jayawardena
There can be profound emotional benefits for both parties. This shared experience fosters a deeper bond between the couple and sets the foundation for a strong family connection that benefits the child.
“We have seen women deliver earlier when their partners were present during the childbirth, so it is important they are allowed in,” Dr. Ajith Kumara said.
Far from being passive observers, men are encouraged to play an active role in the birthing process at Castle Hospital from offering physical comfort through massage and positioning techniques to advocating for the needs of the mother-to-be. They can also observe the efforts of the staff.
“Allowing fathers into the labour room is not a very complicated process,” the Director continued. “We simply educate the couple during their clinic appointments and thoroughly advise them beforehand.”
Currently, the labour rooms accommodate many mothers-to-be, with separate rooms for deliveries. However, with the inclusion of spouses, additional facilities—such as air-conditioned rooms and male toilets—are necessary. One ward has been allocated.
These improvement are funded through donations, and while some work is pending, the hospital is prepared to adapt, he said. Mothers-to-be attending appointments are now being advised in advance to ensure they are prepared.
While such practices are accessible in private hospitals to those who can afford them, Castle Hospital, as a state institution, aims to break barriers and promote inclusivity, Dr Kumara explained. Spouses were enthusiastic when the programme was introduced and many selected the ward that offered access to the labour room, he said.
“This sets a precedent for hospitals nationwide to follow and extend meaningful support to mothers,” he said. “They are encouraged to explore our hospital as a model for inspiration and guidance.”
The Sunday Times spoke with some women who had their husbands by their side for childbirth.
Many hailed the initiative by Castle Hospital as long overdue, emphasising its positive impact on family bonding. However, a minority had reservations, citing preferences for privacy or a focus solely on the birthing process.
Those who appreciated it said the presence of their partners had eased their stress and encouraged a deeper connection. For those who had experienced both scenarios—with and without their husbands — the contrast was stark. Mentally prepared and supported by their spouses, they navigated the process with greater ease and comfort.
“That is the best decision I made in my entire life, having my husband with me during childbirth,” said a woman who recently gave birth. “It made a huge difference and brought us closer together and stronger as a couple.”
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