Fathers' Newborn Care-Related Experiences: A Qualitative Study on Factors Affecting Their Participation in Neonatal Care and Support Needs.

AIM: This study aimed to investigate fathers' newborn care-related experiences, identify the factors affecting their participation in the care process and explore their support needs.

METHODS

This qualitative study was conducted using a phenomenological design. Data were collected through in-depth face-to-face interviews conducted based on a semi-structured interview guide. The data were analysed using Colaizzi's phenomenological data analysis method.

RESULTS

Fathers were willing to participate in newborn care and were particularly involved in practices such as feeding and basic hygiene care. Lack of experience, fear of harming the baby and lack of self-confidence regarding caregiving skills emerged as significant difficulties experienced by the fathers in newborn care. The fathers pointed out that their wives, healthcare professionals and family members were important sources of support, while demanding work schedules, limited paternity leave and traditional gender roles were among the leading barriers limiting their participation in caregiving.

CONCLUSION

The fathers were willing to participate in newborn care, but their participation in the care process was limited owing to individual, social and structural barriers. It is believed that strengthening their caregiving skills and creating supportive environmental conditions will increase their participation in newborn care.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Healthcare professionals, particularly pediatric and neonatal nurses, should develop father-focused training programmes and provide guidance on care practices to encourage fathers to participate in newborn care actively. Developing policies that support paternity leave and family-centred care practices can also increase fathers' involvement in early infant care.