Over the last fifty to sixty years, a complete transformation has taken place in the role of fathers in their children’s births. Once considered ‘unmanly’ to take any part in the rituals surrounding childbirth, the presence and participation of men in this major event is now considered essential. As such, men are encouraged to attend ante-natal classes, support their partners throughout pregnancy and beyond, and even cut the umbilical cord once the baby has been born. Likewise, those fathers that fail or refuse to attend are condemned as unsupportive and uninterested husbands and fathers.