EPA-0826 - Functional Status of Primiparous and Multiparous Fathers in the 6-8 Weeks Postpartum

Abstract

Introduction:

Nowadays father’s role has been changing as a result of the evolution suffered by society. Parenthood sets a moment of crisis, which requires an adaptation and accountability of the father regarding the new roles he now has to assume. In this process we consider the functional status to be an adequate reference to the performance of these roles.

Objectives:

Evaluate the functional Status of primiparous and multiparous fathers in the 6-8 weeks postpartum; analyze the association between sociodemographic and some obstetrics factors in fathers’ functional status and compare the functional status of primiparous and multiparous fathers.

Method:

Descriptive-correlational study with a non-probabilistic, accidental sample constituted by 67 fathers, after the necessary ethics committee and CNPD approval. Data collection consisted of a questionnaire with sociodemographic and obstetric characterization and the inventory of functional status - fathers, Portuguese version.

Results:

The study revealed evidence that fathers’ functional status is not influenced by age, academic qualification, marital status and parity. However is partly influenced by professional situation and pre-natal surveillance site. Profession stability seems to transfer emotional stability, as we believe that the man, in his parental role, feels more available to participate in new tasks and responsibilities if he feels that he assures his family livelihood.

Conclusions:

Nowadays, parents seek to know everything about their children, choosing specialized services and health professionals for skills development and demonstration of care, allowing and contributing to a more favorable transition and adaptation to the parental role and consequently less emotional vulnerability in postpartum.