As a mum and a midwife, I recognize that dads-to-be often feel that all the attention of midwives is focused on the woman.

Within my own practice, I place a great deal of emphasis on partners being as involved as possible in the pregnancy. I am also keen for them to take part in discussions around options and choices in childbirth.

Whilst the majority of my antenatal visits are Mon-Fri, 9-5pm, I try to be as flexible as possible about tailoring my visits around times that partners can also be present, therefore, I offer some appointments in the evenings or at the weekends.

Men often have lots of questions, as well as worries and concerns about the forthcoming labour and I have found that given the time and space, they will talk through their concerns. This is really important, because there needs to be a positive attitude around a woman when she is in labour, and not a feeling of impending danger.

Men often have more concerns than women, as they are not actually 'doing' the giving birth, and therefore are more of an observer. I aim for men to feel that they are active participants in the pregnancy and can be of real 'use' in labour and birth, rather than a 'spare part!'.

Of course, this is their baby too.