Document Type
Report
Publication Date
2000
Abstract
This study’s objective was to improve understanding of Kenyan men’s actual and potential roles as supportive partners in various phases of reproductive health (RH), to help in the design of strategies to encourage men’s greater participation in a variety of RH initiatives in Kenya. The results of the study clearly show that, to a larger extent than anticipated, men in Kenya already participate in women-centered RH services. Overall the institutional barriers seemed to be more overwhelming than the cultural barriers, given that one of the reasons frequently given for nonparticipation was fear of non-acceptance by the health providers. Based on the Population Council’s work on social context issues, including partnership, three potential levels for interventions have been developed: providing information on partnership for reproductive choice and health; building comfort and capacity among providers; and creating a space for partners. The results of this study indicate that there are opportunities for interventions at all three levels, although the space for partners may remain limited to consultations and outpatient care for at least the immediate future.
Recommended Citation
Muia, Esther G., Violet Kimani, and Ann Leonard. 2000. "Integrating men into the reproductive health equation: Acceptability and feasibility in Kenya," Robert H. Ebert Program on Critical Issues in Reproductive Health Publication Series. New York: Population Council.
DOI
10.31899/rh5.1005
Language
English
Project
Robert H. Ebert Program on Critical Issues in Reproductive Health
Included in
Demography, Population, and Ecology Commons, Family, Life Course, and Society Commons, International Public Health Commons