One in five fathers missed birth of their child, study claims
The IndependentStay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. “Most mums are encouraged to make birth plans – but as this study shows, not all births stick to the plan,” said Siobhan Freegard, spokeswoman for parenting site ChannelMum.com, which carried out the study among 2,000 parents. “While most dads are desperate to see their child born, some admit they don’t cope well and opt to stay away – while in other cases mums prefer the support of other family members like their own mum, sister or even a best friend. “Go with what feels right for you as a family.” The OnePoll study found one in 10 dads were resigned to sitting outside the delivery suite as their partner did not want them inside. “But if you do miss the birth, remember it’s only the start of a lifetime with your child, so the most important thing is the love you build going forward.” Top reasons for missing a birth Chose not to be there Got stuck in traffic on the way Didn’t get the telephone call to say labour had started There was an unmissable football match to attend/watch on TV Was in the hospital Did not know the labour was happening Not wanted in the room by partner Was abroad Car broke down on the way Business trip Stuck in a really important client meeting Went to the pub instead Did not want to see partner suffer Watching rugby At sports training Public transport was delayed Parents insisted against being in the room No phone signal / phone battery died SWNS