The factors for low participation of male partners in attending antenatal services in Juba Teaching Hospital, South Sudan.

Abstract

Male participation in the Antenatal services is crucial for realization of socio-cultural and economic development especially through their participation as couples in the uptake of antenatal care for an improved maternal health. This study sought to explore the factors for low male partner participation in attending antenatal services in Juba Teaching Hospital, South Sudan. It identified antenatal services offered, the benefits of attending antenatal services by both partners, the causes of low participation of male partners in antenatal services and the strategies for enhancing the participation of male partners in antenatal services in Juba Teaching Hospital This research useda case study designin which qualitative data was collected. Data was obtained by means of questionnaires and interview guides through which primary data was collected. Secondary data was also collected from documented information to support primary data. By means of simple random and purposive sampling techniques a sample of 50 respondents was drawn from male and female partners married with children, married and expecting, and officials in the department of the antenatal clinic at Juba Teaching Hospital in order to explore the views on why the husbands don’t attend clinic ‘2appointments. The data collected was processed, coded and analyzed qualitatively The study found the following. The antenatal services offered by Juba Teaching hospital included; Antenatal checkups,Counseling and guidance, Antenatal care training, and STD/HIV/AIDS counseling and testing. The study also found the following benefits of attending antenatal care; Updates about progress of pregnancy, Test for HIV/AIDS, Responsibility/support, and health security reasons. The causes of low male partner participation in antenatal services found include; fear of being discovered HIV/Aids positive, financial constraints (poverty), and Cultural believe that its women’s responsibilities. The researcher however concluded that there was need for the facility especially the clinic area to improve in terms of space and sitting arrangements to accommodate all mothers and their spouses comfortably and add more health workers to facilitate quick and quality services to the clients. The researcher also felt the need to advocate for policy change so that the government can pass laws which oblige male partners to be responsible for their unborn babies and their pregnant partners especially financially and emotionally. The other service providers such as NGOs should embark on sensitizing the public on role of both parents in children upbringing.