Partner birth in Kazakhstan: A growing trend of emotional support and bonding

In a special report by Kazinform News Agency, our correspondent delves into the nuances and significance of partner birth in Kazakhstan.

The article also gains insights from obstetrician-gynecologist Elmira Sarysheva as well as shares the personal story of Yerzhan Zhanibekov, a father who has experienced the emotional journey of childbirth alongside the mother of his children.

According to Elmira Sarysheva, an experienced obstetrician-gynecologist, the advantages of partner childbirth are clear. "The primary benefit is the emotional support that the woman receives during the first stage of labor," Sarysheva explains. "It’s a tremendous comfort for her to know that her partner is there, offering not just moral but physical support as well. If it’s the father of the child, he gets the chance to bond with the baby before birth, feeling the connection with the child and the woman simultaneously."

Sarysheva emphasizes that while concerns around hygiene and sterilization were once barriers to partner birth, modern practices have changed the landscape.

"Today, the environment in delivery rooms is equipped in such a way that partners can participate actively without concerns about sterilization issues," she notes. "The child’s immune system benefits from exposure to the natural microflora of the environment, and as long as the facility is not overcrowded, partners can be present without problem."

Despite the clear benefits, there are logistical factors that may limit the opportunity for some fathers or partners to be present. Sarysheva highlights that one of the only significant barriers is the availability of space in hospitals.

"If the maternity ward is too crowded, and there are no available delivery rooms, sometimes a partner may not be allowed to stay with the woman during labor," she says. This highlights the importance of adequate healthcare infrastructure to support the rising demand for partner-inclusive birth.

Sarysheva also points out that while fathers are the most common birth partners, there are occasional cases where friends or even mothers of the women may take on this role.

"Mothers, however, are less often chosen due to the intense emotional stress they may experience, which can sometimes be too overwhelming for them," she explains.

For fathers like Yerzhan Zhanibekov, the decision to be present at childbirth was a deeply personal one.

"Deciding to be there for the birth of my child was entirely my decision," Zhanibekov reflects. " When you're newlyweds with no prior experience in matters like childbirth, supporting your partner becomes an essential part of preparing for such a significant and emotional event."

Zhanibekov shares that his initial experience with childbirth was filled with anxiety and uncertainty.

"I was incredibly anxious when my wife started experiencing her first contractions. I couldn’t imagine how scared she must have been," he admits. Despite his fears, Zhanibekov felt that his presence was vital.

"Even just being there, offering moral support, was extremely important."

He acknowledges that, while his role as a partner in childbirth was emotionally significant, it did not require him to take on medical tasks.

"I didn’t prepare for the experience by reading books or taking classes," Zhanibekov says. " I simply knew I needed to be there for my wife and support her in every way I could I stayed beside my wife, held her hand, and provided comfort. I didn’t watch the actual birth, and I believe that’s okay—not every man might feel comfortable witnessing the physical process of childbirth."

Zhanibekov recounts a particularly moving moment during the birth of his second child.

"When our daughter was born, the midwife called me over to show me something extraordinary: our daughter was born in the amniotic sac. It was a rare and fascinating sight that left a lasting positive impression on me," he recalls.

His advice to other men considering the possibility of attending childbirth is simple: "The decision to be present should be a mutual one. If a man doesn’t want to be there, he shouldn’t feel pressured. Everyone should come to the decision on their own terms."

He emphasizes that his role was primarily about supporting his wife through the process, even when he felt scared himself.

"For me, it was about not leaving my wife alone during such a challenging moment," Zhanibekov concludes.

The growing trend of partner birth in Kazakhstan reflects an increasing recognition of the emotional and psychological needs of both parents during childbirth. As more hospitals adapt to support this practice, partner birth will likely continue to rise, offering both women and men the chance to share in the profound experience of welcoming their child into the world.

Earlier Kazinform News Agency reported that about 24,000 babies were born in the Almaty region this year.