Male Partners' Involvement in Prevention of Mother-to-Child HIV Transmission in Africa: A Systematic Review

ABSTRACT

In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA); male partners are rarely present during prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) services. This systematic review aims to synthesize; from a male perspective; male partners' perceived roles; barriers and enablers of their involvement in PMTCT; and highlights persisting gaps. We carried out a systematic search of papers published between 2002 and 2013 in eng on Google Scholar and PubMed using the following terms men; male partners; husbands; couples; involvement; participation; Antenatal Care (ANC); PMTCT; SSA countries; HIV Voluntary Counseling and Testing and disclosure. A total of 28 qualitative and quantitative original studies from 10 SSA countries were included. Men's perceived role was addressed in 28% (8/28) of the studies. Their role to provide money for ANC/PMTCT fees was stated in 62.5% (5/8) of the studies. For other men; the financial responsibilities seemed to be used as an excuse for not participating. Barriers were cited in 85.7% (24/28) of the studies and included socioeconomic factors; gender role; cultural beliefs; male unfriendly ANC/PMTCT services and providers' abusive attitudes toward men. About 64% (18/28) of the studies reported enablers such as older age; higher education; being employed; trustful monogamous marriages and providers' politeness. In conclusion; comprehensive PMTCT policies that are socially and culturally sensitive to both women and men need to be developed