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Rachel V Thomas

Jeremy Doku Row: Doctors Explain Why Fathers Play A Crucial Role During Childbirth

While mothers rightly deserve recognition for their strength during childbirth, fathers' efforts and support are often overlooked.

A recent social media debate involving Belgian footballer Jeremy Doku has reignited conversations about the role of fathers during childbirth.

The Manchester City winger's decision to consider leaving the World Cup to witness the birth of his child drew widespread admiration. What followed from a French TV presenter, however, drew something very different.

France Pierron, a presenter on French sports channel L'Equipe, called childbirth "a disgusting moment, excuse me, where the dad is useless" during an appearance on the television show.

The remarks sparked widespread backlash, prompting Pierron to apologise on X, saying the comments reflected only her personal opinion.

"These remarks are solely my own and in no way reflect a collective position," she posted on X. "I understand that they may have shocked, offended, or hurt some of you, and I am sorry for that."

Doku, meanwhile, returned to his team after the birth of his son to resume playing in the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Amid the debate, HealthandMe spoke to obstetricians and gynecologists to understand the role of fathers in the delivery room.

According to the experts, fathers are far from passive observers in the delivery room. They stated that a father's support before, during and after childbirth can positively influence both the mother's experience and the family's transition into parenthood.

Read More: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/parenting/fathers-day-ai-now-reading-sperm-giving-hope-of-fatherhood-to-infertile-men-article-154710147" data-type="tilCustomLink">Father's Day: AI Now Reading Sperm, Giving Hope of Fatherhood to Infertile Men</a>

Dr Richa Gangwar, Senior Consultant and Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Clodunine Group of Hospitals, Lucknow, said a father's role begins well before labour.

Fathers must "attend antenatal appointments and childbirth classes, understand the stages of labor, discuss the birth plan with their partner and ensure hospital essentials are ready". 

According to Dr Richa, emotional support during labor can significantly reduce a mother's anxiety.

"A calm presence, words of encouragement, holding hands, maintaining eye contact and simply being there can make a positive difference," she said.

She also recommended fathers to help with breathing exercises, gentle back massages, position changes and reminders to stay hydrated, as guided by the healthcare team.

Dr Sonamm Tiwari, Robotic and Laparoscopic Gynaecologist at Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, added that fathers can further ease stress by encouraging deep breathing, communicating with doctors and helping mothers remain calm and relaxed throughout labour.

Also read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/sepsis-india-joins-global-trial-to-screen-newborns-for-deadly-drug-resistant-infections-article-154769785" data-type="tilCustomLink">Sepsis: India Joins Global Trial To Screen Newborns For Deadly Drug-Resistant Infections</a>

Dr Richa said fathers can also act as advocates by communicating the mother's birth preferences, asking questions when necessary and helping her understand information shared by the medical team, while remaining flexible if the birth plan changes.

The experts emphasized that a father's responsibilities do not end after delivery.

Dr Richa recommended participating in early bonding, assisting with skin-to-skin contact, supporting breastfeeding and sharing newborn care.

Read To Know: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/parenting/more-indian-women-turning-to-egg-freezing-for-future-family-planning-know-the-risks-and-benefits-article-154631989" data-type="tilCustomLink">More Indian Women Turning To Egg Freezing For Future Family Planning: Know The Risks And Benefits</a>

Dr Sonamm told HealthandMe that "fathers should also help with burping, diaper changes, bathing the baby, doctor's appointments, household responsibilities and providing emotional support to the mother during recovery".

She emphasized that "fathers should not underestimate their contribution, as their involvement helps build a strong foundation for parenthood".

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While mothers rightly deserve recognition for their strength during childbirth, fathers' efforts and support are often overlooked.A recent social media debate involving Belgian footballer Jeremy Doku has reignited conversations about the role of fathers during childbirth.The Manchester City winger's decision to consider leaving the World Cup to witness the birth of his child drew widespread admiration. What followed from a French TV presenter, however, drew something very different.France Pierron, a presenter on French sports channel L'Equipe, called childbirth "a disgusting moment, excuse me, where the dad is useless" during an appearance on the television show.The remarks sparked widespread backlash, prompting Pierron to apologise on X, saying the comments reflected only her personal opinion."These remarks are solely my own and in no way reflect a collective position," she posted on X. "I understand that they may have shocked, offended, or hurt some of you, and I am sorry for that."Doku, meanwhile, returned to his team after the birth of his son to resume playing in the FIFA World Cup 2026.Amid the debate, HealthandMe spoke to obstetricians and gynecologists to understand the role of fathers in the delivery room.According to the experts, fathers are far from passive observers in the delivery room. They stated that a father's support before, during and after childbirth can positively influence both the mother's experience and the family's transition into parenthood.Preparing for LaborRead More: Father's Day: AI Now Reading Sperm, Giving Hope of Fatherhood to Infertile MenDr Richa Gangwar, Senior Consultant and Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Clodunine Group of Hospitals, Lucknow, said a father's role begins well before labour.Fathers must "attend antenatal appointments and childbirth classes, understand the stages of labor, discuss the birth plan with their partner and ensure hospital essentials are ready". Supporting Mothers During LaborAccording to Dr Richa, emotional support during labor can significantly reduce a mother's anxiety."A calm presence, words of encouragement, holding hands, maintaining eye contact and simply being there can make a positive difference," she said.She also recommended fathers to help with breathing exercises, gentle back massages, position changes and reminders to stay hydrated, as guided by the healthcare team.Dr Sonamm Tiwari, Robotic and Laparoscopic Gynaecologist at Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, added that fathers can further ease stress by encouraging deep breathing, communicating with doctors and helping mothers remain calm and relaxed throughout labour.Also read: Sepsis: India Joins Global Trial To Screen Newborns For Deadly Drug-Resistant InfectionsAdvocating For The MotherDr Richa said fathers can also act as advocates by communicating the mother's birth preferences, asking questions when necessary and helping her understand information shared by the medical team, while remaining flexible if the birth plan changes.The Role Continues After BirthThe experts emphasized that a father's responsibilities do not end after delivery.Dr Richa recommended participating in early bonding, assisting with skin-to-skin contact, supporting breastfeeding and sharing newborn care.Read To Know: More Indian Women Turning To Egg Freezing For Future Family Planning: Know The Risks And BenefitsDr Sonamm told HealthandMe that "fathers should also help with burping, diaper changes, bathing the baby, doctor's appointments, household responsibilities and providing emotional support to the mother during recovery".She emphasized that "fathers should not underestimate their contribution, as their involvement helps build a strong foundation for parenthood".

jeremy doku row: doctors explain why fathers play a crucial role during childbirth

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