There is increasing recognition that men’s attitudes and behaviors during a partner’s pregnancy influence the outcome of the pregnancy and the couple’s risk of HIV/STIs. The role that antenatal clinic (ANC) services can play to foster couple communication and HIV prevention behaviors among pregnant women and their male partners is the focus of an intervention study in Zimbabwe. As part of formative research, 30 focus groups and 30 in-depth interviews were held with pregnant women, men, community leaders, and ANC staff. Reseachers explored respondents’ definition of and desire for male involvement in a partner’s pregnancy and antenatal care. Findings show that interest in increasing men’s involvement is widespread. Men want to know more about pregnancy, which they perceive is shrouded in mystery. Women would welcome additional involvement by men, and believe it would strengthen the bond within the family. While both women and men agreed upon the importance of providing financial support to the mother and baby, women’s definition of male involvement included other issues. Women said that involved men would offer emotional support and engage in a regular dialogue with them and ANC providers about their reproductive health needs. Women stated that involved men would notice changes in their pregnant partner’s body and be available to help out at home. How the project is responding to community interest in male involvement and these gender differences in expectations about men’s roles will be discussed.
Learning Objectives: N/A
Keywords: Maternal Health, Gender
Awards: - Honorable MentionPresenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.