Males involvement in the reproductive and child health issues in the slum areas of Delhi

A R Nanda, Population Foundation of India
Ponnambala Thiagarajan, Population Foundation of India

Men have multiple roles to play in the reproductive health and the dual role as supporting ‘partners’ of women and clients is more important. However, these roles were not properly captured over the years in the developing countries, especially in India. Creating an enabling environment on the men’s rights and responsibilities is required to enhance women’s reproductive health. More studies are required to understand the issues of involving men in reproductive health further, especially on existing myths and misconceptions among men and male-female dynamics in utilizing reproductive health needs. This paper attempts to understand knowledge and attitudes of husbands on reproductive and child health issues in the selected urban slums of Delhi. About 500 married women and 200 husbands were contacted through a sample survey, as the part of RCH service delivery intervention programme. Analysis shows that if male’s involvement is appropriately directed, responsible parenthood can be largely achieved.