Abstract: Background. Emerging evidence suggests that many men want to be more involved in their partner's pregnancy, and feel unprepared for parenting. Such preparation may be attempted during antenatal education (Parentcraft) sessions.
Aims. This innovation in practice was designed to test the feasibility of involving a male facilitator in existing Parentcraft sessions.
Methods. Parentcraft sessions in two cities were either run as usual or with a male facilitator. The groups with a male facilitator were split along gender lines for part of the session; discussion was group-directed. Parents-to-be completed a short evaluation form antenatally; some also did so postnatally. Interviews with male facilitators and midwives assessed the value of the project.
Results. Men and women who attended sessions where there was a male facilitator reported favourably on this innovation in practice. This appeared to be less to do with the information transmitted as with the opportunity for discussion. Opinion among midwives was divided over the merits of this development, although both men and women were reported to talk more freely in single-sex groups. Experience in group facilitation is an important factor.
Limitations. This innovation in practice was restricted to two cities whose populations are not ethnically diverse. Those attending antenatal education sessions are not representative of all parents-to-be. Local circumstances meant that two versions of the innovation were introduced.
Conclusions. Male facilitation offers one way of involving men in existing antenatal sessions and helping to guide them toward a greater understanding of the father's role. Most of those who experienced the innovation evaluated it well. This innovation appears to produce some benefit, but considerable work still needs to be done to assess the most effective means of provision.
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