Fathers' experiences with the skin-to-skin method in NICU: Competent parenthood and redefined gender roles

AimTo explore how fathers of premature infants experience and potentially benefit from using the skin-to-skin (STS) method during their infants' admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).Methods, participants and settingHermeneutic phenomenological qualitative study. In-depth, semi-structured interviews with five fathers of premature infants in the NICU, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre Hospital, Denmark.FindingsThree themes emerged: 1) “The competent parenthood”. 2) The paternal role and the division of roles between the parents. 3) Balance between working life and time spent with the infant.ConclusionSTS enhances the fathers' ability to play a caring role in their infant's life. Fathers consider themselves less important, as compared to the mother in relation to their infant. STS enhances an understanding of their own role as a father. Health professionals should focus on promoting the abilities of both parents and on ascribing the fathers an equal and important role in their infant's care.