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A recent study published in JAMA Network Open sheds light on the often-overlooked psychological toll adverse pregnancy outcomes can have on first-time fathers. Led by Mikkel Zöllner Ankarfeldt, a pharmacoepidemiologist at the Center for Clinical Research and Prevention, Frederiksberg Hospital, Denmark, the research underscores the need for increased support systems for fathers navigating these challenging experiences.
The nationwide cohort study, spanning data from nearly 20,000 first-time fathers without a history of psychiatric treatment, utilized information from the Danish national registry collected between 2008 and 2017. Researchers examined the impact of adverse pregnancy outcomes on fathers’ psychological well-being, comparing those whose partners experienced stillbirths, major congenital abnormalities, or induced abortions with those whose partners delivered healthy infants.
One striking finding was the significantly elevated risk of psychological distress among fathers whose partners faced adverse pregnancy outcomes. Fathers of stillborn infants were found to have a staggering 23 times increased risk of receiving nonpharmacological treatment compared to those with healthy infants. Moreover, they were nine times more likely to be prescribed hypnotic medications.
Similarly, fathers whose partners underwent early-induced abortions (before 12 weeks) exhibited increased risks of taking hypnotics and anxiolytics within one year. Those whose partners experienced late abortions (after 12 weeks) or delivered infants with major congenital malformations also faced heightened risks of therapy sessions.
“This highlights the necessity of increasing awareness regarding the psychological effects experienced by fathers after adverse pregnancy outcomes and the need for more robust support systems,” remarked the study authors.
However, the study is not without limitations. Researchers acknowledged that their definition of ‘fathers’ as men cohabitating with pregnant women might lead to incorrect identifications. Moreover, the lack of context regarding pregnancies and the absence of lifestyle factor assessments could have impacted the accuracy of the findings.
Despite these limitations, the study underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing the psychological needs of fathers following adverse pregnancy outcomes. By providing tailored support and interventions, healthcare systems can better assist fathers as they navigate these challenging circumstances.
The study was financially supported by the Frederiksberg Hospital, Denmark. The authors reported no other relevant disclosures.
As discussions surrounding mental health continue to gain prominence, studies like these serve as crucial reminders of the multifaceted impacts of pregnancy outcomes and the importance of holistic support for all individuals involved.
