Male partner participation in maternity care and social support for childbearing women: a discussion paper

The discussion paper explores how involving male partners in maternity care can enhance their ability to provide social support to women, thereby improving health outcomes for both mothers and children. The paper presents a theory of change illustrating the pathway from male participation to increased social support, identifies cultural, social, and institutional barriers limiting such involvement, and highlights how participation can boost men's motivation and skills to support women. It also emphasises the importance of careful programme design to avoid reinforcing patriarchal norms.

• Date Published: 2021