An exploration of strategies to enhance meaningful male participation in reproductive, maternal and child healthcare

Authors

  • Ganiyat Odunola Adeniran
  • Beatrice M. Ohaeri Faculty of Nursing Science, University of Ibadan.
  • IyanuOluwa O Ojo Faculty of Nursing Science, University of Ibadan.
  • Chizoma M Ndikom Faculty of Nursing Science, University of Ibadan.
  • Oluwatoyin Babarimisa Faculty of Nursing Science, University of Ibadan.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4314/wnjms.v8i2.7

Keywords:

Child- Health, Involvement,, Male, Maternity, Participation, Reproductive, Strategies

Abstract

Introduction: The need for greater knowledge, education, and responsibility of men in family healthcare is highlighted by men’s activities in improving reproductive, maternal, and child health across various facets of healthcare. The study aims to explore strategies for enhancing meaningful male engagement in reproductive, maternal, and child health (RMCH) care.

Methods: Factors influencing and strategies for enhancing meaningful male participation were explored using a narrative approach to search the literature.

Results: The identified strategies were cultural sensitivity, education for men, male-friendly health facilities, community-based programmes, good policies, and facilities. The exploration implies that families can benefit overall when men are encouraged to participate meaningfully in various activities of different stages of reproduction, maternal, and child health.

Conclusion: Men are to be motivated to actively engage in all phases of reproductive, maternal, including child health care, and in the implementation of the identified strategies to enhance men's engagement positively.

Author Biographies

Beatrice M. Ohaeri, Faculty of Nursing Science, University of Ibadan.

Professor. Faculty of Nursing Science, University of Ibadan

IyanuOluwa O Ojo, Faculty of Nursing Science, University of Ibadan.

Dr. Iyanuoluwa O. Ojo

Lecturer I

Faculty of Nursing Science, University of Ibadan

Chizoma M Ndikom, Faculty of Nursing Science, University of Ibadan.

DR.Chizoma M. Ndikom

Associate Professor

Faculty of Nursing Science, University of Ibadan

Oluwatoyin Babarimisa, Faculty of Nursing Science, University of Ibadan.

Toyin Babarimisa

Faculty of Nursing Science, University of Ibadan.

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Published

31-12-2025

How to Cite

Adeniran, G. O., Ohaeri, B. M., Ojo, I. O., Ndikom, C. . M., & Babarimisa, O. (2025). An exploration of strategies to enhance meaningful male participation in reproductive, maternal and child healthcare. Western Nigeria Journal of Medical Sciences, 8(2), 189–199. https://doi.org/10.4314/wnjms.v8i2.7