Overcoming Cultural Barriers to Men's Participation in Reproductive Health

Abstract

The provision of quality assured reproductive care services can be of significant utility to individuals and the entire community by augmenting health outcomes. There is an immense need to encourage the participation of men in different reproductive health issues, as they share equal responsibility in various reproductive health decisions. Even though men's participation is crucial in reproductive health decisions, there have been multiple cultural barriers that have prevented them from fulfilling their roles. The lack of involvement of men in reproductive health and related decisions accounts for a major impact on the health of women, family dynamics, and public health outcomes at large. Acknowledging the impact of the cultural barriers, there is a definite need to implement public health measures to increase male participation. In conclusion, promoting men's participation in reproductive health decisions can significantly improve women's health and contribute toward creating healthier and equitable societies. This calls for the need to identify and effectively address the prevailing cultural barriers in society through the adoption of a comprehensive approach involving support from different stakeholders.

Keywords: Cultural; men; reproductive health.