Perception and Acceptability of Male Involvement in Maternal Healthcare in Katsina State

Background: Male partner involvement in maternal healthcare is recognised as a strategy for improving antenatal attendance, skilled delivery, and postnatal care uptake. However, cultural norms in the North West geopolitical zone often limit male participation. This study assesses the perceptions and acceptability of male involvement in maternal healthcare among couples in Katsina State. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study enrolled 200 couples through multistage cluster sampling. Separate structured questionnaires were administered to husbands and wives. Qualitative insights were gathered through four focus group discussions. Results: Most male respondents expressed willingness to participate in maternal healthcare but cited cultural expectations and workplace constraints as barriers. Women viewed male involvement positively but expressed concerns about privacy during antenatal consultations. Joint couple counselling sessions were widely viewed as acceptable. Conclusion: Male involvement in maternal healthcare in Katsina State is broadly acceptable but requires targeted cultural reorientation and policy support. Family medicine departments should develop couple-friendly antenatal clinic models that encourage men to participate actively in maternal and infant wellbeing. Keywords: male involvement, maternal healthcare, antenatal care, Katsina State, gender