Pregnancy and Postpartum Cycle and Perinatal Care from the Perspective of Fatherhood

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate men’s participation and perception in the pregnancy-puerperal cycle and perinatal care. The sample included 11 parents, whose children were over 1 year old. The research was qualitative in nature and used a Sociodemographic Questionnaire and a Semi-structured Interview as data collection instruments. Data analysis followed Thematic Categorical Analysis (Rissi et al. 1993). The results show a positive change in the paternal role, with a focus on care and affection. However, parents revealed a lack of knowledge about obstetric violence and reproductive rights, not seeing themselves as subjects with rights in these contexts. This indicates that despite greater male participation in the reproductive process, traditional barriers still affect their understanding of these issues. Therefore, it is necessary to provide professional support and specific guidance to train parents in the pregnancy-puerperal cycle.