Factors Inhibiting Male Participation in Maternal Health. A Case of Mt Hampden Informal Settlement, Zimbabwe

Chamunogwa Nyoni, Bindura University of Science Education
Peter Njovu, Bindura University of Science Education
Francis Jaji, Bindura University of Science Education
Dagobert Mureriwa, Bindura University of Science Education

Introduction: The study examined factors affecting male participation in maternal health issues in Mt Hampden. Methods: The study employed a case study research design. Results: The study revealed that there is low male participation in maternal health issues in Mt Hampden. The study found out that socio-cultural factors or barriers such as gender roles, superstitions, ignorance and fear of an HIV test affect male participation in ANC issues. The study also discovered that socio-cultural factors such as influence of religion, the issue of social priorities and fear of being ridiculed negatively impact male participation in PNC issues. Moreover, the study found out that socio-cultural factors such as stigma on contraceptive usage, illiteracy and the need for virility affect male participation in family planning issues. Conclusion: The study findings indicate that male involvement in maternal health issues in Mt Hampden is obstructed by several socio-cultural embedded within the confines of society.