PARTNER PARTICIPATION IN PRENATAL CARE FOLLOW-UP

Abstract

The partner's participation in prenatal care follow-up is a highly relevant factor for the health and well-being of the pregnant woman and the fetus. Studies indicate that the partner's active involvement can significantly contribute to better health outcomes by offering emotional, physical, and psychological support to the pregnant woman throughout the gestational period. Additionally, the partner's presence at prenatal appointments and activities can strengthen family bonds and foster a more collaborative and safe environment for the arrival of the baby.Objective: To analyze the factors influencing the partner's participation in prenatal care follow-up.Methodology: The research's main question is: What are the factors that influence the partner's participation in prenatal follow-up? This is an integrative literature review conducted through the BVS Scientific Electronic Library Online (SCIELO) and Nursing Database (BDENF) using descriptors registered in DeCS: Prenatal, Pregnancy, Man, Nursing, with the Boolean operator AND. The research will take place in August and September 2024. After initial analysis and selection, the articles will go through inclusion and exclusion criteria. Selected studies followed the following elective criteria: cross-sectional research, quantitative, qualitative, available in full text, in Portuguese, published in the last five years, and meeting the proposed objective. The defined exclusion criteria are: review studies, incomplete works, monographs, theses, dissertations, and duplicate articles in the databases.Results and Discussion: It is observed that Basic Health Units (UBS) are insufficient to serve the male population, especially due to a lack of campaigns targeted specifically at this group. It is essential to highlight the relevance of paternal presence and bonding during the gestational period, noting that this support influences various aspects, such as emotional bonding, maternal and fetal health, the pregnant woman's psychological well-being, and family harmony. This reinforces the importance of the partner's involvement in prenatal care and suggests practices to encourage their effective participation in this process.Conclusion: Based on the above, it is evident that changes in the concept of fatherhood over history influence the affectionate and collaborative role of the father during the pregnancy and postpartum period. Thus, the inclusion of the partner is essential in creating family bonds and maternal-child health. The notable connection found underscores the importance of encouraging the father's participation in the birthing process and his training. Regarding nursing interventions, it is essential to train professionals to encourage paternal attendance in prenatal care and self-care. Being present facilitates family growth, personal development, and maturity, potentially reshaping one's life perspective, showing affection, solidarity, and cordiality, and influencing social routines and values.