IJCRR - 5(6), March, 2013
Pages: 119-126
ROLE OF FATHER IN KEY AREAS OF MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Author: Swapna S. Kadam, Bhagwant S. Payghan
Category: Healthcare
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Abstract:
Being in a male dominant society, Indian women are considered responsible for reproductive and child health. Health education activities regarding reproductive and child health are more women oriented. Responsibility of male partner is considered only in family planning. Role of husbands in maternal and child health is undoubtful as they are decision makers and earning members of the family. Knowledge and awareness about the unknown events during pregnancy can make childbirth an extremely enriching and joyful event. Involvement of men in antenatal care can play a vital role in ensuring safe pregnancy, delivery and moral support to wives. Present study was conducted to assess the knowledge, perceptions and practices of men in key areas of maternal and child health like conception, contraception and Maternal and Child Health care. An observational study was conducted in urban area of Chitradurga .A total of 300 randomly selected men, who had child below two years of age were interviewed by using predesigned, pretested, semi structured questionnaire and after seeking verbal consent. The findings pointed out that respondent’s opinion about age at marriage, age at first conception, son preference, desired family size, acceptance of male contraceptive were adverse and pointed out gaps in knowledge and awareness. Most of the men were aware about the importance of antenatal care and hospital delivery, however their participation in activities related to it was found negligible. Male involvement in child care is seen to be limited to immunization and seeking medical help in illness. The study pointed out gaps in knowledge and misconceptions among men on key areas of MCH issues and stresses the need for male friendly health education. The findings also suggest the need to change perceptions about couple’s role in MCH issues and effective couple communications.
Keywords: Male responsibility, RCH, KAP, Antenatal care.
Citation:
Swapna S. Kadam, Bhagwant S. Payghan. ROLE OF FATHER IN KEY AREAS OF MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY International Journal of Current Research and Review. 5(6), March, 119-126
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