Men’s knowledge, attitudes, and associated factors toward obstetric danger signs: A community-based cross-sectional study in Debre Tabor North West, Ethiopia

Abstract

Introduction: Maternal mortality remains a public health challenge worldwide, particularly in developing countries. Men should be informed about these danger signs to be better equipped to act if they occur. Studies on the topic have been limited in the area. The study aimed to assess men’s knowledge, attitudes, and related factors about obstetrics danger signs in Debre Tabor, Ethiopia. Materials and Methods: A study was conducted in Debre Tabor Town with 609 participants using a pre-tested questionnaire. The data were analyzed using EpiData version 4.6 and SPSS version 25. Variables with P values ≤0.2 were analyzed with multi-variable logistic regression. A statistically significant association was determined using an adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and a P value <0.05. Results: In this study, 609 men were interviewed, with a response rate of 96.9%. Men’s knowledge of obstetric danger signs was 44.8%, while their attitudes were 35.6%. Wives’ education level (AOR = 7.27, 2.13–8.83), history of obstetric danger signs (AOR = 5.34, 3.49–8.16), receiving antenatal care (AOR = 2.44, 1.29–4.64), giving birth in a hospital (AOR = 4.38, 1.69–11.31), and having a health development army leader (AOR = 3.86, 1.38–10.75) were all associated with knowledge at 95% CI. Having a higher wealth index (AOR = 6.30, 3.44–11.53) and having two or more children (AOR = 2.80, 1.51–5.25) at 95% CI were associated with attitude. Conclusions: Men’s awareness and attitudes concerning obstetric danger signs were low. The husband’s education, place of birth, and prenatal care are all important factors in increasing men’s understanding and attitudes. As a result, the government and stakeholders must prioritize education, attitude reform, and health education for men.