A systematic review of the concept 'male involvement in maternal health' by natural language processing and descriptive analysis.

Abstract

Introduction Experts agree that male involvement (MI) in maternal health (MH) is a multifaceted concept, but a universal definition is lacking, hampering comparison of findings and interpretation of the literature. This systematic review aims to examine the conceptualization of MI in MH globally and critically review commonly used indicators. Methods PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and CINAHL databases were searched for quantitative literature (between the years 2000 and 2020) containing indicators or variables representing MI in MH, which was defined as the involvement, participation, engagement or support of men in all activities related to maternal health. Results After full text review, 282 studies were included in the review. Most studies were conducted in Africa (43%), followed by North America (23%), Asia (15%) and Europe (12%). Descriptive analysis and text mining analysis showed MI in MH has been conceptualised by focusing on two main aspects: psychosocial support and instrumental support for maternal health care utilisation. Differences in measurement and topics were noted according to continent with Africa focusing on HIV prevention, North America and Europe on psychosocial health and stress, and Asia on nutrition. One third of studies used one single indicator for assessing MI in MH and no common pattern of indicators could be identified. Antenatal care attendance was the most used indicator (40%) followed by financial support (17%), presence during childbirth (17%) and HIV testing (14%). Majority of studies did not collect data from men directly. Discussion Researchers often focus on a single aspect of MI in MH, resulting in the usage of a narrow and simplified set of indicators. Aspects such as communication between the couple, shared decision making, participation in household tasks and the subjective feeling of being supported have received little attention. We believe a more multidimensional approach can broaden the potential of MI programs. Further research, involving experts and pilot testing, is recommended to develop consensus regarding a more robust and comprehensive set of valid and feasible indicators for assessing MI in MH.

Towards a global framework for assessing male involvement in maternal health: results of an international Delphi study

“…8 The literature shows consensus regarding the importance and benefits of involving men in MH, but the definitions of MI in MH vary worldwide and are inconsistent. 10 Some authors have defined MI as male presence at ANC and others as a combination of financial support, shared decision-making and participation in MH care services. [11][12][13] The interventions to involve men also vary, ranging from inviting men for HIV testing during ANC by invitation letters to multicomponent community interventions addressing women's health and gender roles.…”