The Role of a Father in Access to Maternal and Child Health Services in Ethiopia: A Neglected Key to Survival

Children's survival and health critically depend on supportive adults, particularly their parents. Sub-Saharan Africa and Central and Southern Asia bear the highest burden of maternal, stillbirth, and neonatal deaths. Ethiopia ranks 5th globally among countries accounting for 60% of these deaths. The major underlying causes are harmful gender norms, biases and inequalities. This study identifies factors affecting male involvement in Maternal and Child Health (MCH) care in Ethiopia and proposes strategies to enhance father's contributions to maternal and child survival. Methodologically, an extensive literature review and critical analysis of existing studies, health policies, and reports related to MCH, and father’s role was conducted. Despite Ethiopia's health system improvements that incorporate life-cycle services, significant inequalities persist by economic status, education, residence, and gender. Political commitment to reducing stillbirths remains insufficient. Key barriers to male involvement include health facility factors (inaccessibility, unwelcoming environments, disrespectful care), sociodemographic characteristics (age, education, occupation), low income, and deep-rooted cultural norms relegating MCH to women's domain. In conclusion, the crucial role of father’s in MCH care is widely acknowledged yet underexplored in the policy. Ethiopian men's hesitancy to engage in MCH significantly impacts survival outcomes. Implementing policies promoting male involvement – such as father-friendly clinics, targeted education campaigns, and couple-based antenatal care – can strengthen health systems and improve family well-being.