Abstract:

Background and aim: Male partner involvement in ANC is essential for reproductive health and wellbeing of the family. Despite proven benefits, male partner involvement (MPI) in antenatal care (ANC) remains low, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Understanding expectant mothers' perceptions is crucial for developing effective strategies to promote MPI and improve maternal and child health outcomes. The study aimed to determine the perceptions of expectant mothers on the importance and barriers of MPI in ANC. This research will provide valuable insights to guide future interventions.

Methodology: A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted among expectant mothers attending ANC clinics in Nyamagana District Hospital, Mwanza, Tanzania (n=373). Data was collected randomly from women attending ANC using a structured questionnaire and Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS version 27.

Results: About 373 pregnant women who were visiting the ANC with Mean age of 28.2 years participated in the study. 55.0% (205) of male partners attended to the ANC services at least once with their partners. The most reported factor that influenced attendance was awareness of its importance 89(23.9%). Most of participants reported financial support 100(26.8%) as the most important roles of male partners. Time constraints 190(50.9%) and cultural beliefs 124(33.2%) were the most reported challenges in encouraging men to participate.

Conclusion: Engaging men in efforts to support the health of mothers and newborns can yield significant health benefits for mothers and newborns. College education was associated with male involvement. Cultural beliefs and being busy with work or other commitments were a major impediment to male involvement. Most expectant women acknowledged the importance of MPI in supporting maternal health during pregnancy.