Experience of fathers of neonates with congenital heart disease in South Korea

Background Although the 1st month is critical for establishing fatherhood, rare studies have focused on this topic. Objective To understand experiences of fathers of neonates with congenital heart disease. Methods Descriptive phenomenology study. Results The fathers were initially unaware of the seriousness of their neonates' condition. After they learned about it, they felt despair. They experienced guilt regarding their neonates' diagnosis and tried to take full responsibility for the situation to save their family from crisis. Furthermore, they were anxious because they could not do anything except wait for surgery. Their despair turned into gratitude postoperatively, and they developed positive views. Despite intending to be caring and affectionate, they returned to their socially assigned role as providers and passed on the caregiver role to the mothers. Conclusion Healthcare providers should assess anxiety levels and support fathers of neonates with congenital heart disease to help them develop their paternal role.