Health Facility Determinants of Male Partner Involvement in Antenatal Care in Kiambu County, Kenya

Abstract

Introduction: Male partner involvement is defined as men taking an active role in protecting and promoting the health and wellbeing of their spouses and children. Previous research has demonstrated that male partner involvement is very vital in the optimization of antenatal care services and leads to better maternal neonatal health outcome. Despite the efforts put in place to improve their involvement, this has remained low in Kenya. This study explored the health facility related factors determining male partner involvement in antenatal care.

Methods: The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey design which provided both quantitative and qualitative data. The study population was 384 male partners aged 18 - 90 years who were residents of Kamenu Ward, Kiambu County and had either a pregnant spouse or a child aged below 3 years.

Results:  A total 59.1% accompanied their spouses to ANC. Health facility factors had significant positive relationship with male partner involvement in ANC (p< 0.001). Shortage of health providers 251(65.9%) and their negative attitude 209(54.3%) were the most prominent determinants of male partner involvement.

Conclusion & Recommendations: On the basis of the study findings, facility related factors positively affects male partner involvement in ANC. The researcher recommends the county government and health facilities management to ensure male partners are encouraged to be actively involved in their spouses ANC through: Hiring more antenatal clinic health providers, developing training programs and seminars to educate male partners and their spouses on the benefits of their involved. Ensure health workers are determined to serve their clients – a culture of customer orientation would really encourage male partners to participate in their spouses ANCs.