Fathers' experience in supporting the mother and infant during the postpartum period: a qualitative systematic review.

BACKGROUND

Fathers become more involved in the health care of mothers and infants during the postpartum period. Qualitative studies on fathers' postpartum experience are increasing, but a comprehensive synthesis of father's experience of supporting the mother and infant is lacking.

AIM

To synthesize the best evidence of fathers' experiences supporting the mother and infant during the postpartum period.

METHODS

From inception until 20th August 2024, a comprehensive search of qualitative findings was conducted across nine databases, without publication year restraints but limited to language in English or Chinese. Using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) SUMARI, two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and appraised quality. A meta-aggregation approach was used for data synthesis, with evidence assessed through the JBI ConQual approach.

FINDINGS

24 studies from 1991 to 2024 were included in the review, which was then assessed as moderate to high quality (scores 5-10). The review included studies across 14 countries of different income levels. The total number of fathers included in the studies was 461. One hundred twenty-seven supported findings were extracted, and they were aggregated into eighteen categories and five synthesized findings: 1) Willingness to support mothers and infants; 2) Types of support provided by fathers; 3) Bittersweet experiences; 4) Challenges and coping strategies; and 5) Experience related to healthcare services.

CONCLUSION

This qualitative systematic review explored postpartum fathers' diverse experiences supporting the mother and infant. It highlighted the importance of including fathers in postpartum healthcare education programs and services, increasing their health knowledge and health literacy about postpartum care.