How fathers and partners impact maternal and infant mortality outcomes
Last year, Kenny Thomas joined our team as our Male Engagement Coordinator. In this role, he engages fathers with parenting skills, peer companionship, co-parenting techniques, and education on child development. Countless studies have shown that the father’s involvement in the pregnancy reduces negative maternal health behaviors, risk of pre-term birth, low birth weight, and infant mortality. It has been proven that if the husband is generous with emotional, logistical, and financial support, there is a significant reduction in maternal stress. The more support mom and baby have, the more successful their journey is; that’s why we knew formally engaging partners was imperative to help us achieve our mission.
Kenny interacts with fathers in various ways: in one-on-one sessions, group sessions, and at our events. In group sessions, we’ve created an atmosphere of familiarity and confidentiality that allows fathers of all ages to meet and discover that they are not alone. During one-on-one sessions, they can focus on building and strengthening the skills and knowledge needed to be a parent.
Kenny interacts with the father as much as they are willing to participate. “About 50% of the partners are ready to dive in headfirst and get all they can out of the program,” he said.
Kenny believes this program is important because it gives fathers a safe space to learn and be supported in ways that aren’t often provided. He has seen firsthand the struggles they face when supporting their pregnant partner during pregnancy and after, which is simply knowledge and recognition.
“Countless times, partners have expressed to me that in doctor’s offices or appointments, they do not feel seen or heard,” he said. “Most partners lack the knowledge of potential health concerns or what to watch for during pregnancy.”
Those things may include blood pressure and swelling of the feet—simple things that, if monitored, could be very helpful for a successful pregnancy and birth.
Contact us, and our team can connect you with this program and the resources and education that work best for you.
