Involvement of Male Partners in Sustaining Interventions for Preventing Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV Among Women with HIV.

Abstract

Background and objective: Although male partners are eager to support the implementation of prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV programs, several obstacles prevent them from participating. The purpose of this study was to explore the support of male partners of HIV-positive women in sustaining the implementation of PMTCT interventions.

Methods: This study adopted a qualitative approach. The case study research design was used to generate an in-depth understanding of the factors that hinder male participation in PMTCT interventions. Non-probability purposive sampling was used to 20 sample participants. Data was collected from two focus group discussions and analyzed using open coding. Trustworthiness was achieved by credibility, transferability, and confirmability. Adherence to ethical principles was upheld.

Results: Findings revealed two themes, perceived practices that hinder the provision of support and perceived support provided to sustain PMTCT intervention during childbirth. Sustaining PMTCT interventions included how the male partner adheres to interventions that prevent the transmission of the virus, like consistent condom use, especially during breastfeeding, support in exclusive breastfeeding, adherence to ART, and limiting the use of cultural practices.

Conclusion and global health implications: The involvement of males in the interventions of PMTCT has been found to improve the sustainability of eliminating transmission of the virus to the baby. All clinics were recommended to be men user-friendly to encourage men to accompany their partners. Men are to be actively involved during decision-making and physical examination, where possible. Workshops and information-sharing sessions for men forums and community members on PMTCT interventions to be conducted.