The ONS describe

1 in 6 men living with domestic abuse.

Nearly half of men, 49% do not tell services about their abuse.

Between April 2015 & March 2020, there was an average of 12 men year a killed by their partner.

At every antenatal appointment, I (a woman) am asked if I am safe in my current relationship, and given a private space to discuss any concerns I may have about my personal relationships, my safety, my home life and my mental health. Which is understable given that domestic abuse can increase, or begin during a pregnancy. The studies on this currently only focus on the mother, or child bearing individual 

However the father of my children is not asked if he is safe, about his mental health, nor if he has concerns regarding our interpersonal relationship. I argue that his physical and mental wellbeing is also important during this time and should be taken into considerstion, as any abuse perpetrated by a child bearing individual will not only impact the safety and well being of their partner, but will also also ultimately lead to issues of safety and well being within the childs home once they are born.

I feel like the time taken for myself to go privately into a room to be asked if I am safe and well, is also an opportunity to privately ask male birthing partners (indeed any birth partners) about their circumstances and act accordingly to ensure their safety and mental wellbeing.