Why Men Should Get Involved in Maternity Care in Nigeria: A Story of Understanding and Support

In the early morning light, Chuka stood by the window of the small maternity ward in Lagos, Nigeria, watching the sun rise over the bustling city. His wife, Ngozi, was resting after an exhausting night, the soft hum of the hospital monitors accompanying the rhythm of her steady breathing. It was a moment of peace, but Chuka couldn’t shake the feeling that there was more he could do. Though he had always been there for Ngozi, his involvement had been largely passive. Now, with the birth of their first child drawing near, he was realizing just how vital it was for him to take a more active role in the entire process of maternity care.

The Journey of Awareness in Nigeria

In many Nigerian communities, maternity care is seen as a woman’s responsibility, with men often taking a backseat. Cultural norms and long-standing traditions have led to a perception that childbirth and pregnancy are realms best left to women and medical professionals. However, as Chuka stood in the ward, he recognized the importance of breaking this mold. His wife’s well-being, the health of their baby, and his own role as a father and partner were all tied to his active involvement in maternity care.

In Nigeria, where many families still adhere to traditional gender roles, men like Chuka are often distanced from the experience of pregnancy and childbirth. Fathers are expected to be providers and protectors, but the emotional and practical support that is so crucial during pregnancy and childbirth often falls solely on the women. This cultural gap, however, is gradually being challenged, as more Nigerian men like Chuka are stepping up to play an active role in their partner’s maternity care. Chuka’s story is an illustration of how men in Nigeria can and should become more involved in the journey of pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal care.

Breaking the Silence: Men and Maternity Care in Nigeria

For months, Chuka had been attending antenatal appointments with Ngozi at the local health center in Lagos. Initially, he had felt awkward and unsure, but as the visits continued, he began to understand just how much he could contribute. In Nigerian society, where discussions about pregnancy and childbirth can sometimes be seen as taboo for men, this was a significant shift for Chuka. His newfound involvement was not just beneficial for Ngozi, but it also deepened their bond as a couple.

At first, Chuka’s primary role was simply to accompany Ngozi to her check-ups, ensuring she felt supported. But as time passed, he became more engaged in the medical discussions, asking questions, taking notes, and learning about the tests, risks, and care protocols. Ngozi, though grateful for his support, also found comfort in knowing that Chuka was not only by her side but also informed about the process.

In many parts of Nigeria, it is still common for men to remain uninvolved during their wives' pregnancy. However, research shows that when men actively participate, both the mother and child benefit. Men who attend prenatal visits, educate themselves about pregnancy, and take part in the labor process help reduce stress, improve birth outcomes, and foster better emotional connections within the family.

The Power of Support: How Men’s Involvement Can Improve Birth Outcomes

As Chuka grew more involved, Ngozi’s experience became less isolating. The late-night cravings, the overwhelming fatigue, and the emotional rollercoaster of pregnancy were all part of the process, and Chuka learned that his role wasn’t just to provide physical support but emotional empathy as well. In Nigeria, where many women face pregnancy-related challenges with minimal support, Chuka's active participation made a tangible difference.

Research from both local and international studies shows that when men are actively involved in maternity care, both mothers and fathers report lower levels of anxiety and stress. For instance, couples who attend antenatal classes together are better prepared for the birth, which can reduce the number of complications during labor. In Nigeria, where maternal health remains a challenge, this support can be the difference between a safe, empowered delivery and an overly stressful experience.

When the time came for Ngozi to give birth, Chuka’s presence in the delivery room was invaluable. He was not just there for emotional support, but also as an advocate for Ngozi’s wishes, communicating her preferences with the medical staff. In Nigerian hospitals, where sometimes patient care can be impersonal due to staff shortages or overworked teams, Chuka’s active role helped ensure that Ngozi’s birth experience was as smooth and positive as possible.

Emotional Connection and Bonding with the Baby in the Nigerian Context

In Nigeria, many men traditionally see their role in the family as the provider and protector, often disconnected from the early stages of parenthood. However, involvement in maternity care offers men the opportunity to forge an early emotional bond with their child. Chuka found that as he accompanied Ngozi to her check-ups and listened to the doctor explain the baby’s development, his attachment to the unborn child grew stronger.

By the time their baby was born, Chuka felt an immense connection to the little one. He had experienced the pregnancy journey alongside Ngozi, and the baby’s first cries were not just an arrival, but the beginning of his own relationship with his child. This bond, nurtured over months of involvement, set the foundation for a lifetime of fatherhood.

Health Benefits for Fathers

Men’s involvement in maternity care also has benefits for their own health and well-being. Studies have shown that fathers who participate in prenatal care tend to experience less stress and depression and are better equipped to handle the challenges of fatherhood. Chuka, who initially felt nervous about his role as a father, found that the more he learned about maternity care, the more confident he became. His involvement not only supported Ngozi but also gave him a sense of purpose and responsibility.

In Nigeria, where the pressures of daily life can weigh heavily on men, having a supportive and active role in their family’s pregnancy journey can alleviate some of the emotional burden. By being part of the maternity process, fathers like Chuka gain a sense of control, empowerment, and pride that extends beyond the birth itself.

Fathers as Advocates in Maternity Care

Another crucial role that men can play in maternity care in Nigeria is that of an advocate. In Nigerian hospitals, where overcrowding and understaffing can sometimes impact the quality of care, a father’s involvement can be essential in ensuring the mother receives the attention and care she deserves. Chuka took it upon himself to stay informed about the process, asking questions about the procedures and being a voice for Ngozi when she was too tired or overwhelmed.

Involving men in the advocacy process ensures that both the mother’s and child’s needs are met. In a healthcare system that often faces challenges, fathers who are active participants can contribute to a more supportive, patient-centered experience.

The Ripple Effect: Changing Perspectives on Fatherhood in Nigeria

Chuka’s involvement in maternity care didn’t stop after the birth. He continued to support Ngozi through the early weeks of parenthood, from late-night feedings to pediatrician visits. His bond with his child deepened, and as a couple, he and Ngozi grew stronger. Their experience became a story they would share with other couples in their community, helping to challenge traditional gender roles and inspire other Nigerian men to get involved in maternity care.

In Nigerian society, where traditional gender norms often dictate the roles of men and women, Chuka’s story serves as an example of how breaking away from these expectations can lead to healthier families and stronger communities.

Conclusion: A Call for Change in Nigeria

Chuka’s journey is not just a personal transformation but part of a larger movement toward changing how men in Nigeria approach maternity care. Men who actively participate in pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal care help create a more balanced, supportive environment for both mothers and fathers. In doing so, they not only contribute to better health outcomes but also strengthen the bonds within their families, fostering a more inclusive, compassionate approach to parenthood in Nigeria.

As we move forward, it’s crucial that we continue to encourage and support the involvement of men in maternity care. By doing so, we can create a future where both parents share equally in the joys and challenges of raising a child, building a healthier, more connected society for the next generation.