Omugwo Impact on Husbands: Mental, Nutritional, and Social Challenges

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By Akintoye Oluyemi

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When you marry a woman , who becomes a mother, she tells the world, and the husband, she is having children for him. But decades later, when the kids are all grown up and recoding far away, even in Canada, United States of America or Europe, she goes off to take care of the newly born, while the husband, is left behind uncared for in his old age for months, even years. So what are the challenges faced by this ageing grandfather and how can he cope?.

Omugwo is a traditional postpartum practice common in many Nigerian cultures, where the mother of a new mother stays with her for a period after childbirth to help care for the new mother and the newborn. The practice is aimed at providing physical, emotional, and social support to the new mother, allowing her to rest and recover while also bonding with her baby.

For the husband left behind at home, omugwo can have both positive and negative effects, depending on various factors such as the relationship dynamics, the husband’s personality, and the support available to him during this period. Here’s a comprehensive look at how omugwo can affect the husband:

1. Mental and Emotional Impact:

• Loneliness and Isolation: The husband may feel lonely and isolated, especially if he is used to having his wife’s companionship.
• Responsibility Overload: He may feel overwhelmed with the additional responsibilities of managing the household and possibly caring for older children.
• Worry and Anxiety: Concerns about his wife’s health and the well-being of the newborn may cause stress and anxiety.
• Emotional Support: Lack of emotional support from his wife during this period may lead to feelings of sadness or frustration.

1. Nutritional Impact:

• Dietary Changes: With his wife away, the husband may have to adjust to cooking for himself, which can lead to changes in his diet and possibly inadequate nutrition.
• Meal Preparation: The added responsibility of preparing meals can be challenging, especially if he is not used to cooking regularly.

1. Social Impact:

• Social Isolation: The husband may feel socially isolated without his wife’s presence, especially if they are a close-knit couple.
• Role Changes: Assuming the role of both parents temporarily can be challenging and may affect his social interactions and routines.

Coping Strategies for the Elderly Husband:

1. Seek Support: Encourage the husband to seek support from friends, family members, or a support group to help him cope with feelings of loneliness and isolation.
2. Maintain Communication: Regular communication with his wife and updates on her and the baby’s well-being can help alleviate anxiety.
3. Self-Care: Encourage him to take care of his own health by eating well, getting enough rest, and engaging in activities he enjoys.
4. Accept Help: If possible, he should accept help from neighbors, friends, or other family members who may offer assistance with household tasks or childcare.
5. Stay Active: Encourage him to stay physically active, as exercise can help improve mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
6. Focus on the Positive: Remind him of the purpose of omugwo and the benefits it brings to his wife and newborn, which can help him cope with the temporary challenges.

Overall, while omugwo can pose challenges for the husband left behind at home, with support and coping strategies, he can navigate this period successfully and support his wife and newborn during this important time.