Denis Oduor: The Role of Expectant Fathers in Saving Mothers and Newborns

Denis Oduor, Nairobi County Blood Services Coordinator at Nairobi City County, shared a post on LinkedIn:

“How Expectant Fathers Are Making Change in Blood Donation

Expectant fathers are increasingly becoming important champions of blood donation in maternal and newborn health.

Their involvement goes beyond supporting their partners during pregnancy, they are helping build a culture of blood donation that saves the lives of mothers and babies.

Why their role matters

Pregnancy and childbirth can sometimes lead to life-threatening complications, particularly postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), which remains one of the leading causes of maternal deaths in Kenya and globally. Access to safe blood and blood products is often the difference between life and death.

By donating blood and encouraging others to do the same, expectant fathers help ensure that blood is available when mothers experience obstetric emergencies.

Ways expectant fathers are driving change

Leading by example

Many fathers donate blood during their partner’s pregnancy journey, demonstrating personal commitment to family and community health.

Mobilizing family and friends

Fathers often encourage relatives, colleagues, church members, and community groups to become voluntary blood donors.

Supporting blood donation campaigns

Participation in community blood drives increases awareness about the continuous need for blood, not only during emergencies but throughout the year.

Promoting birth preparedness

Fathers who understand the importance of blood availability are more likely to support antenatal care, emergency planning, and timely health-seeking behavior.

Advocating for maternal health

By linking blood donation to safe motherhood, fathers help shift maternal health from being viewed solely as a women’s issue to a shared family responsibility.

Impact on maternal and neonatal health

Reduced maternal deaths from hemorrhage.
Improved availability of blood for emergency cesarean sections and complicated deliveries.
Better newborn survival through improved maternal outcomes.
Stronger community awareness of the importance of voluntary non-remunerated blood donation.
Enhanced preparedness of health facilities to respond to obstetric emergencies.

Key Message

Every unit of blood donated by an expectant father can help save a mother, protect a newborn, and strengthen the health system.

Maternal health is not only a women’s issue – it is a family issue. When fathers step forward to donate blood and champion voluntary blood donation, they become active partners in ensuring that every mother has a safe pregnancy, a safe delivery, and the opportunity to watch her child grow.

‘A father’s first gift to his child can be the gift of blood—helping ensure that no mother or newborn dies due to lack of a lifesaving transfusion.'”

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