Factors Associated with the Participation of Expectant Fathers in Birth Preparedness Plan for Their Wives' Pregnancies in Nay Pyi Taw Territory, Myanmar

Evidence proved that male participation in maternal health care contributes to positive health outcomes for women and their children. However, the role of male participation in maternal health care is understudied in Myanmar. This study was conducted to assess the participation of expectant fathers in birth preparedness plan for their wives’ pregnancies in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar. This community based cross-sectional study was undertaken among 198 expectant fathers from selected ten health centres’ catchment areas villages, Lewe and Takkone Townships, Nay Pyi Taw Territory. Thirty nine per cent of studied expectant fathers participated in the well birth plan for their wives. Out of the total expectant fathers studied, saving money was the common index (79.8%) with identification for safe blood in case of emergency being the least index (33.8%).Expectant fathers with high knowledge and positive attitude in maternal heath were more likely to plan birth preparedness compared to those of low knowledge and negative attitude and it was significantly associated with p-value <0.001. The participation of expectant fathers in the birth preparedness plan was remarkably low because they involved passively in the life saving item as planning safe blood for emergency cases. Thus, an initiative programme for encouraging expectant fathers is needed to increase their participation in a birth plan through peer leading, culturally sensitive education and proper health care system.