Engaging Men for Better Maternal Health in Tribal Communities

Indian tribal communities are very different from each other. They have unique customs and lifestyles. Unfortunately, they face serious health challenges. Tribal populations often have poor health, higher rates of sickness, and many struggle to access medical care. This is a major concern that needs attention.

#The Role of Men in Maternal Health

One important point that applies to all tribal communities is the role of men in maternal health. Involving men in maternal Health Services can greatly help mothers and their children. Studies show that when men take part in these services, family relationships improve. This involvement also helps lower health costs related to childbirth and maternal care.

Men who are engaged in Reproductive Health often know about government health programs, vaccinations, and care during and after pregnancy. This knowledge helps more pregnant women use the services available to them, leading to fewer complications and deaths during childbirth. Research indicates that couples who talk openly about pregnancy usually create a healthier environment for their children.

#Barriers to Male Participation

Despite the benefits, many studies find that men do not participate in maternal health activities. There are several reasons for this lack of involvement. Some men are unaware of available health services, while others may be illiterate or struggle with issues like alcohol addiction. Financial problems, loss of wages, and negative experiences with healthcare providers also contribute to this issue. Cultural beliefs, older family members' attitudes, and personal views towards these services further complicate matters.

Because of these challenges, researchers stress the need for new approaches to encourage men's involvement in maternal health services.

#The Importance of Maternal Mortality Ratio

A key measure of health care in any country is the maternal mortality ratio (MMR), which refers to the number of women who die during childbirth. In India, significant progress has been made over the past 20 years in reducing the MMR. Back in 1990, India recorded about 600 maternal deaths for every 100,000 live births. More recent estimates indicate that the number of maternal deaths has dropped significantly, from 130 per 100,000 live births in 2014-15 to 113 in 2016-18.

To improve maternal health, the Government of India has introduced various programs. Some of these are Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) and Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakaram (JSSK). These programs aim to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates through effective healthcare services.

#The Role of RCH Services

Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) services focus on reducing the death rates of mothers and children. Studies have shown that areas with more accessible RCH services also see better health outcomes. Increasing the use of these services can help decrease serious health issues and improve child survival rates.

To promote better health and prevent disease, Behavior Change Communication (BCC) is used. This method involves providing clear information and creating an environment where communities can learn about health issues and improve their health knowledge.

#BCC Interventions in Communities

BCC interventions have been successful in changing community behaviors. For example, in Bangladesh, the Rural Advancement Committee (BRAC) launched a program aimed at improving maternal and child health through BCC. This program has effectively influenced both men and women to make healthier choices and access health services.

In rural Bangladesh, the IMNCS program demonstrated that BCC could improve practices like cord care for newborns and delay bathing after birth, which reduced infant mortality.

#Men's Involvement in Saharia Tribes

A study focused on Saharia tribes, one of the oldest tribes in India, revealed that men rarely accompanied women for prenatal check-ups. This was mostly due to a lack of awareness, cultural norms, and gender biases. Therefore, there is a strong need for gender-sensitive programs that address these barriers.

Saharia tribes, primarily found in Madhya Pradesh, lead a life heavily influenced by agriculture and Hindu traditions. Their customs include worshipping deities and celebrating festivals. To tackle health issues in this community, a study was conducted to test the feasibility of a BCC program aimed at improving the use of maternal health services through male involvement.

#Aims and Objectives of the Study

The main goal of the study was to see if a BCC approach could effectively increase male participation in maternal health services among the Saharia tribes. The program focused on ensuring that men were aware of the importance of antenatal check-ups, vaccinations, and nutritional support for pregnant women.

To assess the feasibility of the program, three main areas were explored: acceptability, integration, and limited efficacy testing.

#Acceptability of the BCC Model

The first focus was on how well the targeted individuals and the program implementers received the intervention. The feedback indicated a positive reaction. Community members expressed support for the BCC activities, seeing them as a new and beneficial step for their health.

#Integration of the BCC Model

The next focus was on integrating the BCC activities into existing systems. It was found that no significant changes were needed in the current infrastructure. The key requirement was the participation of community leaders and local health workers in the program’s implementation.

#Limited Efficacy Testing

Limited efficacy testing helps determine if an intervention is working. In this case, the BCC program was tested in one Saharia village for its short-term impact. After a month, it was clear that there had been noticeable changes in the attitudes of men regarding accompanying their wives for healthcare services.

#Study Design and Implementation

The study used a qualitative approach, starting with BCC activities in one selected village. Initially, 20 men were chosen for training to engage them in the program. This training lasted two days and included various activities like community mobilization, campaigns, and face-to-face counseling.

To better understand the living conditions of the Saharia tribe, researchers used a technique called transect walking. This involved observing and documenting the village layout and infrastructure, which gave insights into the community's needs.

#Community Engagement

Community gatherings were held to explain the purpose of the BCC program. Both men and women shared their views on health services, leading to increased awareness about the importance of male involvement in maternal health.

Various activities were organized, including performances to promote male participation. Rallies were conducted to spread awareness about maternal health issues. Community members, including local leaders and health workers, took part in these events, pushing for better health practices.

#Results and Feedback

After the intervention, there was a significant change in the men's willingness to participate in maternal health services. Feedback showed that the awareness program fostered greater understanding of the available government healthcare options. Many couples expressed enthusiasm and optimism about the program's impact.

The men also showed increased awareness of prenatal care and agreed that accompanying their wives to health facilities was essential. The majority indicated a strong commitment to support their partners throughout the pregnancy.

#Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of engaging men in maternal health services, particularly in tribal communities like the Saharia. The BCC model proves to be an effective strategy for changing attitudes and behaviors regarding maternal health. By fostering male participation, the overall health outcomes for mothers and children can significantly improve.

Future efforts should focus on expanding this model across other tribal areas in Madhya Pradesh and beyond. Continued awareness and education can help bridge the gaps in healthcare access for these communities, ultimately leading to healthier families and improved maternal health.