# Male Partner Involvement in Birth Preparedness, Complication Readiness and Obstetric Emergencies in Central Rural India: A Cross-Sectional Study

## TL;DR

This study in rural India finds that only a small percentage of men are involved in birth planning and pregnancy care, which could improve maternal and child health outcomes.

## Contribution

The study quantifies male involvement in birth preparedness and identifies factors like education and economic status that influence participation.

## Key findings

- Only 28.29% of male participants were well involved in birth preparedness and complication readiness.
- 33% of males were aware of various danger signs and complications related to pregnancy.
- Better-educated and higher-income males showed greater birth preparedness.

## Abstract

Background and objectives: Childbirth is mainly thought to be a woman’s concern, and mortality can be prevented by making a birth plan constituting birth preparedness and complication readiness with the entire family as one unit. Indian National Plans aim to increase male involvement, but the policies lack directions and monitoring systems; hence, it becomes important to address this issue.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study conducted in a rural hospital and a community-based setup included 350 male participants, consisting of new fathers or expecting fathers, who were interviewed with the help of a questionnaire.

Results: Only 28.29% of male participants were well involved in the process of birth preparedness and complication readiness. 83% of the husbands accompanied their respective wives during ANC visits (mean number of visits: 5.76). 33% of males were aware of various danger signs and complications related to pregnancy. The males with better education (p-value < 0.005) and economic status (p-value < 0.0001) had better birth preparedness. Several variables in the study were positively correlated with the amount of money saved.

Interpretation and conclusion: Male involvement during pregnancy significantly impacts maternal and child health outcomes. However, this study highlights a lack of awareness and involvement among males. We strongly recommend enhancing existing maternal and child health (MCH) programs to include components focused on male partner engagement in birth preparedness, complication readiness, and obstetric emergencies.