ArticleBMJ public health2026
Beyond support: a qualitative exploration of the emotional and relational impact of male partner involvement in maternal healthcare in Ghana.
Article in BMJ public health, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 1 paper.
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The abstract states no effect estimate the extractor could read, or names no intervention and outcome on the map, so this paper lights no cell and moves no belief. It is still indexed, cited and linked below.
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Who cites it
1 citing paper in PubMed.
- Male partner involvement in antenatal care: implications for maternal health services in Juba, South Sudan.AJOG global reports · 2026Article
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Authors and funding
5 authors.
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No grant is acknowledged in the PubMed record.
Abstract
Introduction: Male partner involvement in maternal healthcare is crucial for improving maternal and child health, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Traditionally viewed as a woman's domain, pregnancy often excludes men, yet their engagement enhances antenatal care, nutrition, medical adherence and outcomes. Beyond clinical benefits, less attention is paid to how male involvement affects women's psychological well-being, couple dynamics and men's views on fatherhood. Aim: This study explored the perceived emotional and relational impact of male partner involvement in maternal healthcare, focusing on how such involvement affects women's well-being, men's emotional experiences and couple relationships. Methods: A qualitative descriptive design was employed. In-depth interviews were conducted with purposively selected 25 men whose partners had experienced pregnancy within the past 5 years. Data were analysed thematically, and emergent themes were organised into four categories: women's health and well-being, men's emotional experiences, relationship dynamics and evolving views on fatherhood. Results: Findings revealed that male perceived involvement contributed to improved maternal health-seeking behaviour, reduced physical strain and enhanced women's emotional well-being. For men, active participation fostered responsibility, empathy and respect for women, though some also reported stress due to systemic healthcare challenges and financial pressures. Relationship dynamics were positively influenced, with participants highlighting stronger marital bonds, trust and shared responsibility. Male perceived involvement also reshaped participants' perspectives on fatherhood, which was described as both a responsibility and a source of joy and fulfilment. Conclusion: Male partner perceived involvement in maternal healthcare extends beyond practical support, exerting profound emotional and relational impacts on both partners. Encouraging male participation not only promotes maternal health but also strengthens family relationships and redefines fatherhood. Policy and programme interventions should therefore integrate men as active partners in maternal health to enhance holistic family well-being.
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