Women’s Perception Of Male’s Support During Perinatal Period

Abstract

Abstract : Globally male involvement on maternal health services remains a challenge to effective health care. Maternal deaths arise from pregnancy, childbirth and postnatal complications and this can be reduced by involving men. Support of male involvement have been acknowledged in developed countries, however there still continues to be a challenge in creating a space for and engaging men in maternal health. In Kenya male support in perinatal care is one of the strategies for improving the maternal health and reducing maternal mortalities. This study explored socio demographic, cultural and health facility factors associated with male partner support. Data was collected using a pre tested structured questionnaire administered to 211 respondents. Four focus group discussions were conducted in groups of nine. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze socio demographic characteristics and inferential statistics using chi-square, odd ratio analysis using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21. Null hypothesis was tested at 5% significance level. The study showed that male participated by providing support. Improving the levels of education and income of male partners, addressing cultural beliefs and practices, and sensitizing men on complications associated with pregnancy and child birth can contribute significantly in enhancing male partner support in maternity care.