Researchers at University College London have suggested it is not always beneficial for the mothers for fathers to attend the birth of their child.
Scientists gave 39 women moderately painful “pinprick” laser pulses on their fingers both with and without their partners present.
The experiment consisted of three 10-minute laser blocks.
It found that the pain was not always alleviated by the presence of the men, especially among women who said they avoid emotional intimacy in their relationships.
Katerina Fotopoulou lead author said: “Overall, this study suggests that partner support during pain may need to be tailored to individual personality traits and coping preferences.”
For many fathers old and new, watching your baby coming into the world is arguably one of the most life-changing events in a man’s life.
According to figures from the British Pregnancy Advisory Service the presence of fathers in the delivery room has increased “dramatically” in the past five decades.
Over the years there have been dramatic changes in the expectations of modern families.
A poll of around 500 parents found 95 per cent of fathers-to-be remained in the delivery ward during birth, with just one in 20 dads opting to wait outside.
It seems men are playing to play a larger role for the mother of their child during pregnancy, with women often turning to the father for support.
Such a subject is going to cause debate amongst parents but ultimately the experience remains a very personal one and the decision on whether the father attends should be worked out between both parties ahead of the birth.
