Zimbabwean socialite, Kerita Tawana Choga, has called on men to be actively involved during their partners’ pregnancy and after childbirth, sharing real experiences of women who go through these phases largely unsupported.
Choga highlighted cases of women who, despite being pregnant or caring for newborns, receive little to no assistance from their husbands. These women described managing all household chores, fetching water, attending medical appointments, and caring for children on their own.
“One woman shared that even from the first day of her pregnancy, she had to handle everything herself from attending scans and gynecologist visits to household chores while her husband remained absent. Simple childcare tasks, like changing diapers or soothing the baby at night, were left entirely to her,” Choga said.
The socialite emphasized that pregnancy and postpartum care require supportive partners who are physically, emotionally, and financially present.
“Pregnancy requires a supportive partner, a present father, someone who understands that help and support are needed. Men, please support your partners, especially during pregnancy and after delivery. It is not easy,” she urged.
Health professionals in Zimbabwe have echoed these concerns, noting a worrying trend of men being absent during pregnancy and postnatal care. A midwife said many women are discharged from hospitals alone with newborns, while some face medical emergencies or bereavement without the presence of their partners.
“This is not just about convenience; being a present father is critical to the health and wellbeing of both mother and child. Men need to show up, help, and take responsibility,” Choga added.
The socialite revealed that stories like these influenced her own decision to use a long-term IUD, highlighting the importance of support in family planning and maternal health. She praised men who actively participate in their partners’ pregnancy journeys as exemplary and urged others to follow their lead.
