Fathers’ health crucial to improving pregnancy outcomes

A new study is challenging the traditional approach to pregnancy care, which focuses solely on mothers’ behaviours.

Southampton researchers and international partners have highlighted the important role of fathers.

The study has been published today in The Lancet. It suggests that providing more support for fathers could help to improve the health of the next generation.

Focussing on fathers

Professor Keith Godfrey is a senior author of the study and a researcher at the University of Southampton (UoS).

He leads the NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre's nutrition, lifestyle and metabolism theme.

“Research into the influence of fathers on pregnancy and parenthood has previously been neglected,” he says.

“Now this is changing, it is becoming clear that fathers have a real impact on pregnancy. Their own health and behaviours, like their weight, whether they use substances, and their age can influence pregnancy and child outcomes - not just the pregnant person’s.

“For some aspects, the influence of the father is even stronger than that of the mother. Some of these fathers’ effects are linked to experiences from their own childhood.”

Starting before pregnancy

The period before pregnancy is known as ‘preconception’. It provides a valuable time to prepare for parenthood. This includes for fathers-to-be to improve their own health.

The researchers gathered evidence from biological, behavioural and social sciences. They used this to create a framework for men's role before and during pregnancy.

Dr Danielle Schoenaker is a co-author of the research. She is a researcher at UoS and the BRC.

“Our findings show that a man's early life experiences, including stress, physical and mental health, environment and education influence his health during his reproductive years,” she said.

“These factors can, in turn, affect his partner's health and health behaviours (such as prenatal care) before and during pregnancy. They can also have direct biological effects on the developing infant.”

Reducing health disparities

The study was led by Jonathan Huang, Assistant Professor at the University of Hawaii.

“Racism and colonialism have disrupted family and community roles for many Black and brown men. This has created barriers to addressing their health needs,” he said.

“This disruption underscores the need for culturally grounded approaches. Policies and programs are needed to strengthen family and community bonds, while centring the health and wellbeing of men within their cultural roles.”

The research was carried out by an international team. This included collaborators in Southampton, University College London, the United States, New Zealand and Singapore.

The researchers emphasise many different people have a role in improving preconception health. These include policymakers, public health agencies, clinicians, researchers and men themselves.

“Investing in the wellbeing of boys and young men is key to reducing health disparities and improving outcomes for future generations,” said Professor Godfrey.

“Raising awareness about the importance of men’s health does not diminish the critical importance of women and pregnant persons’ wellbeing.

“Rather, it serves as a collective call to ensure that men and partners are equipped to be supportive partners, allies and caregivers before, during and long after pregnancy.”