Men’s Knowledge of Antenatal Care and Causes of Maternal Mortality among Industrial Workers in Kano

Abstract

Background: Men’s knowledge and involvement in reproductive health are crucial, though their participation has been poorly demonstrated. Objectives: This study was carried out to assess men’s knowledge of antenatal care and the causes of maternal mortality.  Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among married men working in Sharada industries, Kano State. The study population comprised only consenting married men that worked in the selected industries. Questionnaires were distributed among the respondents. Information such as socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of antenatal care and causes of maternal death were asked and documented. Data collected were analyzed using SPSS version 19 software. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Two hundred and eighty-nine respondents participated in the study. The mean age ± SD of the respondents were 40.86 ± 0.63 years. It was observed that 92.7% of the respondents knew what antenatal care was but 70.2% of the respondents did not know the causes of maternal mortality. While 41.5% knew that complications of pregnancy can be prevented and managed, 58.1% didn’t know how maternal mortality can be prevented. There is a significant statistical association between respondents’ age distribution and knowledge of Antenatal Care. Conclusion: The survey revealed good knowledge of antenatal care among men but poor knowledge on what it entails and the ways of preventing and managing pregnancy-associated complications.