Role of male partners in birth preparedness and complication readiness: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background In familial and societal matters, men are the decision-makers and economic resource providers in many patriarchal societies. It is important to assess the involvement of men in birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR), as men act as gatekeepers to women's health. We examined the role, motivators and barriers for participation of male partners of pregnant women in BPCR. Methods This qualitative study was based on the grounded theory approach. Data were collected through 29 in-depth interviews conducted among husbands (n=8), mothers (n=8), mothers-in-law (n=8), health professionals (n=5) and focus group discussions (FGDs) with pregnant women (FGD, n=3). Interviews and FGDs were transcribed; themes and sub-themes were generated and conclusions were drawn by triangulation of the data. Results Men were found to have a major role in BPCR. They supported their pregnant wives by maintaining their health, providing financial support and helping them in the decision-making process regarding treatment. They also provided complication readiness support by arranging transportation and facilitating the process of hospital admission. Conclusions Our study emphasizes how changes have occurred in the attitudes and practices over generations regarding men's role in BPCR and their participation during delivery. However, there is a long way to go for which transference of knowledge and cultural transformation have become necessities.