Should men be in the room at birth?

It seems like a no-brainer: of course the father will be in the room when the baby is born! But some, including internationally respected obstetrician and waterbirth pioneer Michael Odent, say that "women should be left alone to give birth in peace without the distraction of their partner at their bedside".

David Vernon, a Canberra father of two, researched this issue for Men At Birth, Non-Fiction Book winner for 2007 at the ACT Writing and Publishing Awards. "Few of us had our fathers attend our birth. Certainly our Granddads did not attend our father’s birth. We are the leaders for our children. If we get it right then future generations will thank us,” David says.

Bush Babies are providing an opportunity for Canberra families to discover how best to prepare Dad for his role at the birth. The free Fatherhood seminar, with David Vernon as guest speaker, is at 10:30am on Saturday, 20 September at the Functions Room, Corroboree Park, Ainslie (doors open 10am). David will be delighted to sign any of his books purchased at the event. Talks usually run for around 30 minutes, with plenty of time to chat before and after. Tea and coffee provided.

Don't forget to sign up for the Brindabella Baby newsletter. We've extended our BabyLegs competition until the end of September: sign up for the newsletter for a chance to win a three-pack of BabyLegs legwarmers (to fit newborn to early primary years). And do make use of our special offer during September: we're giving away a $5 gift voucher for every $50 ordered (not including postage) during September 2008.