Obstetric Caregivers' Perspectives on Barriers and Perceived Impacts of Male Involvement in Antenatal Care and Labour in Ekiti State, Nigeria: A Qualitative Study.

Background: Husband involvement in antenatal care (ANC) and labour is linked to improved maternal and neonatal health outcomes. However, in Nigeria, male participation remains limited. While most studies focus on women's perspectives, little is known about the challenges healthcare providers face in promoting male engagement. This study explored barriers and the impact of male involvement in ANC and labour care from the perspectives of obstetric caregivers in Ekiti, Nigeria. Methods: A qualitative study was done at a tertiary referral hospital in Ekiti, Nigeria, from June 2023 to June 2024. Twelve obstetric caregivers (six doctors and six midwives) were purposively selected based on their experience in ANC and labour care. Data were collected through two focus group discussions using a semi-structured interview guide. Thematic analysis was conducted using framework analysis following Ritchie and Spencer's five-step method, and NVivo version 12 was used for the data analysis. Results: Five categories were emerged from the data analysis. Three categories were identified in barriers as "inadequate space and privacy concerns", "cultural and religious barriers", and "lack of awareness and education". The remained two categories regarding perceived impacts of male involvement included "improved maternal and birth outcomes" and "increased emotional support and reduced anxiety." Conclusion: Addressing these barriers requires targeted interventions such as expanding maternity facilities, promoting community education, and integrating male-inclusive policies into maternal healthcare. These interventions can enhance family-centered maternity care and improve maternal and neonatal outcomes in Nigeria.