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BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth
Published in: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth 1/2018

Open Access 01-12-2018 | Research article

Fathers’ experiences of care when their partners suffer from peripartum cardiomyopathy: a qualitative interview study

Authors: Harshida Patel, Marie Berg, Cecily Begley, Maria Schaufelberger

Published in: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth | Issue 1/2018

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Abstract

Background

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM), a potentially life-threatening condition in women, can have a profound impact on the family. Although structured support systems are developed, these systems tend to be based on the healthcare providers’ perceptions and focus mainly on mothers’ care. Fathers’ vital role in supporting their partners has been advocated in previous research. However, the impact of PPCM on the male partners of women is less understood. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of healthcare in fathers whose partner was suffering from peripartum cardiomyopathy.

Methods

The data from interviews with fourteen fathers were analysed using inductive content analysis.

Results

An overarching category “The professionals could have made a difference” was identified from the data, characterised by the sub-categories: ‘To be informed/not informed,’ ‘To feel secure/insecure,’ ‘To feel visible/invisible’ and ‘Wish that it had been different’. Lack of timely information did not allow fathers to understand their partner´s distress, and plan for the future. The birth of the child was an exciting experience, but a feeling of helplessness was central, related to seeing their partner suffering. A desire for follow-up regarding the effect of PPCM on themselves was expressed.

Conclusions

When men, as partners of women with PPCM, get adequate information of their partner´s condition, they gain a sense of security and control that gives them strength to handle their personal and emotional life-situation during the transition of becoming a father, along with taking care of an ill partner with PPCM. Hence, maternity professionals should also focus on fathers’ particular needs to help them fulfil their roles. Further research is urgently required in this area.
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Metadata
Title
Fathers’ experiences of care when their partners suffer from peripartum cardiomyopathy: a qualitative interview study
Authors
Harshida Patel
Marie Berg
Cecily Begley
Maria Schaufelberger
Publication date
01-12-2018
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth / Issue 1/2018
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2393
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-018-1968-x

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