The Impact of Male Involvement on Enhanced Postnatal Mental Health Outcomes among Women in Resource-Constrained Settings: A Scoping Review
Abstract
Context: The psychological health of mothers after childbirth is an essential but often overlooked aspect of maternal and child health, especially among socioeconomically deprived groups (Mehan, 2025). There is evidence showing the correlation between the involvement of males’ roles maternal health and better health indicators. However, the data available on the males’ role in supporting maternal mental well-being after childbirth is limited. Objective: This scoping review seeks to outline the existing literature on male involvement in postnatal maternal mental health support in low-resource settings, identify barriers and facilitators, and outline existing intervention strategies alongside research gaps. Methods: Research was carried out for studies published from 2015 to 2025, utilising the Arksey and O’Malley framework with additional improvements suggested by Levac et al (2010). Studies from low- and middle-income countries examining male partners' roles in providing emotional, practical, and psychosocial support during the postpartum phase were considered eligible. Data were extracted using a standardised form and analysed thematically. Results: From 58 included studies, male involvement was consistently associated with improved maternal mental health outcomes, including reduced postpartum depression, lower anxiety levels, and greater use of mental health facilities. The most substantial barriers were stigma, entrenched gender stereotypes, and insufficient healthcare facilities specifically for males. The strongest facilitators were the education of communities, couple-oriented interventions, peer social support, and the incorporation of male involvement into standard maternal health facilities. There were significant findings for most questions, and coverage and geographical spread amplified their impacts—standard maternal health facilities. Most questions had significant findings, and coverage and geographical spread amplified their impacts. Summary: Regardless of the constraints placed by the availability of resources, involving men is an essential and often overlooked approach to improving the postpartum mental health of mothers. To encourage greater male involvement and improve maternal outcomes, there needs to be the inclusion of evidence-based and contextually appropriate interventions that mitigate the current structural and socio-cultural barriers.
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