Theories and Frameworks Used in Research on Fatherhood and Men’s Antenatal Care Participation in Rural Sub-Saharan Africa: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has the worst maternal and newborn health outcomes, especially in rural areas. Men’s antenatal care (ANC) participation is often promoted to improve these outcomes, yet little is known about theories or frameworks guiding research on these issues. This scoping review aimed to identify, categorize, and critically examine theories and frameworks used in research on fatherhood and men’s ANC participation in rural SSA. Following Arksey and O’Malley’s methodology, we included 23 studies from 15 countries that applied a theory or framework and systematically analyzed data. Findings highlighted growing focus on complexities around fatherhood and men’s participation, though gaps in theory, framing, scope, and cultural relevance remain. Most studies emphasized biomedical participation and Western gender frameworks, overlooking African indigenous care practices, epistemologies, and diverse fatherhood experiences. No study used explicitly Afrocentric frameworks. Policy, practice, and research could benefit from Afrocentric and indigenous perspectives to better align with local realities.