Man's roles after parturition

Women who deliver in Nigeria after tendering appropriate evidence are now entitled to a six-month leave. This is good news, as the postnatal period has been very demanding. A friend of mine recently testified how challenging it was for him when his wife was pregnant. He practically had to be around his wife throughout the antenatal and even natal periods. So yes, men also go through symptoms associated with pregnancy, such as the Couvade syndrome, where men experience pregnancy symptoms. Men equally bear the significant emotional and financial burden of pregnancy and, as such, deserve some breaks.

I have had the occasion of managing women for elevated blood pressure after delivery. This is commoner with first-time deliveries who lack social and family support. The presence of her husband and, hopefully, his contributions in the little ways mean so much for the woman. As much as the woman suspends several activities to take care of the child, including at odd hours, the presence of the man in the house would go a long way to give succor to the wife.

For a start, the federal government of Nigeria has granted husbands two weeks of paternity leave so as to avail themselves of support. This to me is commendable as a start, even though I would prefer it to be at least a month or for the peuperial period, which is forty-two days. This would allow for sufficient emotional support for the wife and bonding with the baby. The baby's eyes are reportedly known to be attached to regular faces. The cry of babies and discomfort babies put their parents through can be disturbing, especially at odd hours. First-time parents can also be worrisome when they suspect symptoms develop in their child. This could be a good observational skill by both parents, and oftentimes, their concerns are relieved when they make consultations with their doctor, unless for something significant worth investigating.

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Notwithstanding, there are husbands that shy away from such responsibilities in the early days after delivery, although this is less common for first-time deliveries. Taking care of newborns can be very challenging. It is advised that newborns feed every two hours, and even when they are asleep, they should be woken up to eat. The other business babies have is sleeping. Thus, if they aren't feeding, they should be sleeping. When there is the complement of the mother-in-law for support after delivery (usually from the husband's), it could be both a relief and otherwise for the mother of the newborn. It is no news that some cultures can be archaic and unhealthy for the newborn. These practices include, but are not limited to, scarification marks, consumption of concoctions, and other cultural practices. The presence and position of the husband can influence significantly if such practices are permitted. The couple could easily relate and agree upon a line of action, as mothers are often careful to confide in mother-in-laws.

The presence of the husband during the early days after delivery cannot be overemphasized, and a relief from their daily work could afford them ample time for support and bonding with their newborn baby.

Thank you for reading. I would love to have your comments and contributions.