Partners in Parenthood: How Fathers are Shaping the Pregnancy Journey

BY MUSA POLITE

At the Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital labor ward, David Mugabo, a father of two, said he has taken part in escorting his wife during the ANC visits at facilities as a commitment to be an active husband in supporting his wife in pregnancy journey.

“I wanted to be as involved as possible. I need to understand what my wife goes through. Being there for her during labor is one of the most memorable experiences of my life,” Mugabo says.

Mugabo said she has attended all eight antenatal care visits with his wife, viewing them as opportunities to learn about the pregnancy process, understand the physical and emotional challenges, and prepare himself to provide the necessary support.

“Today, I’m here as she labors because I believe my presence gives her strength and courage. This is a journey we must walk together,” he adds.

Ms Kengonzi Lydia, a senior midwife at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital, said it is a good gesture to see a husband escorting his wife both during ANC and labor.

“Labor requires a lot of emotional and physical support. When both partners are engaged, it leads to a more positive birth experience, even simple gestures like holding hands or offering words of encouragement can reduce a mother’s anxiety and improve the overall outcome,” She said.

Growing Trend of Male Participation in Antenatal Care

Ms Rachael Kajubu, a midwife at Kagote Health Centre III in Fort Portal City, said that recently she has witnessed a notable increase in male participation at antenatal care visits at their facility

“Recently, the number of men attending these appointments has significantly improved, from around two to at least ten a month, this involvement enhances the parenthood experience,” She said.

She added, “The numbers have steadily grown—from three in May to seven in both June and July and ten in August. In September, we had thirteen men accompanying their wives on different days,” Kajubu says.

She notes that couples who engage in these visits together are better informed about pregnancy and childbirth, which often leads to better outcomes for both mother and child.

Mr Ivan Namanya, a Fort Portal City resident, said they recently welcomed a baby with his wife, Mbaine Mary Claire, and said he supports the idea of male involvement in ANC.

“I wanted to be there every step of the way. We need to share this experience.”

His wife, Ms Mbaine, said, “My husband has been incredibly helpful with everything from late-night feedings to just being there when I need to talk. It makes a world of difference,”

The importance of male involvement

Ms Anna Tukahirwa, Assistant District Health Officer in charge of child and maternal health in Kabarole District, said it is more important for men to escort their wives during those days.

“Fathers support provide essential emotional support, and their presence can significantly reduce anxiety for mothers. It’s important for both partners to be engaged in this journey,” she says.

Tukahirwa also said there are ongoing community engagements and media campaigns that promote male involvement in antenatal care visits and these initiatives aim to educate men about the pregnancy process and show them how to support their partners effectively.

“We want to break the gender stereotypes and stigma surrounding antenatal care,” she said.

She said one of the key aspects of antenatal care is ensuring the health of both partners.

“It’s mandatory to test all couples for HIV, syphilis, and other sexually transmitted diseases during antenatal visits to ensure a safe delivery. To achieve this, both wife and husband need to attend these visits together,” Tukahirwa explains.

Shared responsibilities in parenthood

Ms Kiconco Rebecca Kabyogamu, a retired teacher and mother said, “Fatherhood is no longer just about providing; it’s about nurturing, connecting, and being present. This change is vital not only for the well-being of mothers but also for the emotional development of children,” she says.

Kiconco believes that with continued support and understanding from both partners, families can thrive in this new age of shared responsibilities.

According to the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), male involvement in antenatal care is most prevalent among those aged 20–29 who have higher education levels, are aware of pregnancy danger signs, and have been exposed to information on male involvement.

As more men become active participants in antenatal care, the landscape of fatherhood continues to evolve creating stronger family bonds and improving outcomes for mothers, fathers, and children alike.