MALE PARTNER PARTICIPATION IN DELIVERY CARE IN NIGERIA: A SYSTEMATIC ANALYSIS OF BARRIERS, FACILITATORS, AND INTERVENTIONS FOR IMPROVING MATERNAL HEALTH OUTCOMES

Abstract

Male partner participation in delivery care and maternal health services has emerged as a critical component of safe motherhood initiatives globally. This literature review synthesizes evidence from existing studies examining male partner involvement in delivery care in Nigeria. The paper adopts patriarchal theory as the theoretical framework. The evidence reveals that male participation in delivery care remains suboptimal across Nigerian contexts, with participation rates varying widely from 10% to 65%, depending on the specific aspect of care and geographic location. Key barriers identified include deeply entrenched cultural norms that define childbirth as “women’s business,” institutional constraints such as inadequate space and restrictive policies, lack of awareness and education among men, financial constraints, and patriarchal gender roles. Facilitators of male participation include higher levels of education, urban residence, effective spousal communication, health education interventions, and supportive attitudes from healthcare providers. Evidence further demonstrates that male involvement is associated with improved maternal health outcomes, including increased facility-based deliveries, better birth preparedness, enhanced emotional support for women, and improved maternal and neonatal health indicators. Community-based interventions and health education programs have shown promise in improving male participation. The review concludes that addressing male partner participation requires multi-level interventions targeting cultural norms, healthcare system policies, and individual knowledge gaps. Recommendations include integrating male-inclusive policies into maternal healthcare, expanding healthcare facility infrastructure, implementing community-based education programs, and reorienting men’s understanding of their roles in maternal health within Nigeria’s patriarchal context.