Factors Associated With Male Involvement in Accompanying their Wives for Antenatal Services: A Case Study of Northern Uganda

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the factors that associate with male involvement in accompanying their wives for ANC services as an attempt to reduce maternal and infant mortality in Northern Uganda. To achieve the above goal, this study utilizes data from across sectional survey. A sample of 709 men aged 15-54 years living in Northern Uganda was considered for analysis. Data analysis was done at univariate and bivariate using Stata version 15. A Chi-Square test of significance was used to establish the association between the outcome variables and the predicator variables. The finding of the study revealed that men’s age, education levels, parity and marital status had a significant influence on male involvement in antenatal care. Men who were currently staying in rural area had a low accompanying rate because they had little knowledge, awareness about antenatal and accessibility to the health facilities with equipped services was poor compared to those in urban areas. The wealth index was also a weak factor in explaining male involvement in ANC in Northern Uganda. There is need for increased awareness on antenatal care services so as to increase their utilization by both men and women. This will be instrumental in reducing the occurrence of deaths as a result of pregnancy related complications and consequences. The NGOs, Ministry of Health in partnership with other stakeholders should extend health facilities to ensure availability and accessibility; enhance sensitization and information to both men and women living in rural areas through CBO outreaches, seminars and workshops to increase on the percentage of men accompanying their patterns for ANC in Northern Uganda.