Engaging fathers in developing a research proposal to support their transition to parenthood

Little is known about fathers' needs during the perinatal period. This patient and public involvement and engagement project's aim was to work with expectant and new fathers to shape objectives for a future research project exploring how to support them during their transition to parenthood. Two discussion groups, one in person and one online, were held with a total of 10 fathers who had attended a Baby Steps antenatal programme. A discussion activity was undertaken by both groups and a scoring activity exploring topics important to the participants was undertaken by the in-person group. Participants' responses were analysed descriptively. The participants wanted to be heard and feel included. They highlighted a need for future research co-designed with fathers in the perinatal period to improve outcomes for them and their families. This project highlights the importance of involving fathers in the development of studies to support their needs during the transition to parenthood. Key areas of focus for future work should include confidence in understanding and caring for their baby, the changing couple relationship and fathers' perinatal mental health.