Beyond Supportive Roles: Determinants of Male Partner Participation in Antenatal and Postnatal Care in a Rural Philippine Community

Male partner participation is increasingly recognized as an important component of maternal and newborn health. However, men’s involvement in antenatal and postnatal care remains limited in many rural communities due to social, economic, cultural, and health system-related barriers. This study aimed to determine the factors associated with male partner participation in antenatal and postnatal care among fathers/male partners in a rural Philippine community, examining how socio-demographic characteristics and perceived barriers influence their involvement in maternal health services. A quantitative descriptive-correlational design was employed among 117 fathers/male partners in Monreal, Masbate, Philippines. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing socio-demographic characteristics, level of participation during antenatal and postnatal care, and perceived barriers related to cultural and social norms, institutional factors, economic constraints, and knowledge. Descriptive statistics and Spearman’s rank correlation were used for data analysis. Results showed that male participation was moderate during the antenatal period and low during the postnatal period. Fathers demonstrated greater involvement in emotional support, household responsibilities, and financial assistance but limited participation in healthcare visits and maternal health decision-making. Economic constraints emerged as the highest-rated barrier, while age showed a significant relationship with all perceived barrier domains. Male participation in maternal healthcare remains influenced by multiple social and structural factors. Strengthening father-inclusive programs through targeted education, male-friendly health services, and community-based interventions may improve paternal engagement and contribute to better maternal and newborn health outcomes.