‘You Need to Watch Your Wife Give Birth,’ Dad Says in Viral Video

Just 50, 60 years ago, having dads in the delivery room was almost unheard of. Concerns that they might panic, pass out or disrupt the process often kept them at a distance. But as gender roles have evolved and partnerships have grown more equal, more men have stepped up—and into the delivery room. Still, many partners stay on the “safe” side of the curtain. One dad, however, is asking others to reconsider.

In a now-viral video with more than 5 million views, Myer Krah (@here4thedads) shares an “unpopular opinion” about childbirth. “You need to watch your wife give birth,” Krah says. “I know I sound crazy; I thought I was crazy. At some point, a dad told you do not go past the curtain. Do not go to the other side. Because scary things are down there.”

A father of four, Krah admits that for his first three children, he followed those “warnings.” But when his wife was pregnant with their fourth, he felt like he was “missing something, missing an opportunity”—so he decided to act. “My best friend has had home birth and he said it was beautiful and miraculous, and I thought he was a hippy.” Armed with new perspectives and a bit of curiosity, Krah made a change.

“Going to the other side changed everything. I watched my wife be strong,” Krah says, tearing up. “I watched my wife sacrifice for our family. For the next 24 hours, I was in awe. I had so many questions that were answered after watching my wife give birth. Questions I still have. How does she start walking after 24 hours? How is this miracle possible?”

Before ending his video, Krah makes it clear that “all dads are built different,” and his advice isn’t one-size-fits-all. “You don’t want to make this about you. You don’t want to go passing out. But if you have it in you and you have a chance, the opportunity, watch your wife give birth.”

Of course, there are a few caveats. This advice isn’t just for dads—whether you’re hoping to witness your partner’s labor or support “your person” through birth, it’s essential to talk with them first. Some birthing people may not want a partner present in the room, and that decision deserves respect. And even if you agreed upon a role in beforehand, know that even the most detailed birth plans can change, and supporting your partner means staying flexible.

Looking for more ways to support your partner during pregnancy? Check out these 9 tips for helping them through this physically and emotionally intense experience.