The Place of Male Partner Involvement in the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Nigeria (Published)
The elimination of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV remains a major public health priority in sub-Saharan Africa, where socio-cultural and systemic barriers limit the effectiveness of prevention interventions. Male partner involvement (MPI) in prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) programmes has emerged as a critical strategy to improve maternal and infant health outcomes. This study examined the role of male partners in enhancing PMTCT services in Nigeria, highlighting the socio-cultural, behavioural, and systemic factors influencing their participation. Using a narrative review methodology, peer-reviewed articles, reports, and grey literature published between 2010 and 2024 were systematically analysed. Findings indicate that active male engagement through HIV testing, antenatal clinic attendance, financial and emotional support, and encouragement of ART adherence significantly reduces perinatal HIV transmission, improves retention in care, and promotes holistic family well-being. Socio-cultural norms, stigma, gendered perceptions of reproductive health, limited awareness, and health system constraints were identified as major barriers to MPI. Evidence further suggests that culturally sensitive interventions, community education campaigns, male-friendly clinics, and the involvement of traditional and religious leaders enhance male participation. Overall, male partner involvement not only strengthens biomedical interventions but also addresses behavioural and social determinants critical for the success of PMTCT programmes. This review underscores the necessity of integrating men into maternal and child health initiatives as a transformative approach to reduce vertical HIV transmission, improve ART adherence, and foster shared responsibility within households, ultimately contributing to national and global HIV elimination goals.
Keywords: Child health, HIV/AIDS, Male Partner Involvement (MPI), Maternal, Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT), Socio-cultural factors
Synergy between Skilled and Traditional Birth Attendants on Quality of Maternal and Newborn Care in Nigeria (Published)
Maternal and newborn health remains a critical challenge in Nigeria, with high maternal and neonatal mortality rates persisting in many regions. The coexistence of formal healthcare systems with traditional birth practices provides a unique opportunity for synergy between Skilled Birth Attendants (SBAs) and Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) to improve the quality of maternal and newborn care. This study explores the potential benefits of collaboration between SBAs and TBAs in Nigeria and investigates the barriers and facilitators to such cooperation. The findings highlight the complementary strengths of SBAs and TBAs. SBAs bring formal medical training, evidence-based practices, and access to medical resources, while TBAs possess cultural knowledge, community trust, and local birthing expertise. Through joint training and capacity building initiatives, TBAs can be equipped with updated medical knowledge, improving their ability to identify high-risk pregnancies and refer cases to skilled healthcare providers effectively. Effective referral systems play a pivotal role in ensuring timely access to emergency obstetric care. Challenges to collaboration include cultural and traditional beliefs, language barriers, limited access to resources, and legal and regulatory obstacles. Addressing these barriers requires a comprehensive approach that promotes cultural sensitivity, mutual respect, and inclusiveness within the healthcare system. The study concludes that harnessing the synergy between SBAs and TBAs can lead to a more integrated and effective maternal and newborn healthcare system in Nigeria. By leveraging the strengths of both groups and creating an enabling environment for collaboration, Nigeria can make significant strides towards reducing maternal and neonatal mortality, improving the quality of care, and achieving better health outcomes for mothers and newborns. Continued research and collaborative efforts are essential to capitalize on this synergy and drive positive change in maternal and newborn healthcare across the country.
Keywords: Maternal, Quality, Skilled birth attendants, newborn care, synergy, traditional birth attendants