Knowledge, attitude and practice regarding antenatal care among husbands attending antenatal clinic in a tertiary care hospital

Abstract

Background: Antenatal care is important to identify women at risk of developing pregnancy complications. In India, husbands are the main decision makers in family. Their support can have positive impact on health care of women, which in turn depends on their knowledge regarding importance of antenatal care. Keeping this background in view, the study was aimed at assessing the knowledge, attitude and practice regarding antenatal care among husbands of pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in a tertiary care hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 husbands attending antenatal clinic. Face to face interview was conducted to assess their knowledge, attitude and practice using a structured questionnaire. Results: Husbands were the decision makers in majority (72%) of families. Out of 200 men interviewed, 64% felt that antenatal care was required only if there was a complication. Only 20% men preferred to accompany their wives for antenatal check-ups. Majority of them felt that their main role was to provide financial support.  Conclusions: Majority of men have considerable knowledge regarding antenatal care but its importance is not being completely understood. Husbands’ accompanying their wives during antenatal check-ups will not only help in utilizing antenatal services, but will also help in early diagnosis and treatment of complications.