Enhancing Male Partner Involvement in PMTCT: A Multi-Component Intervention Trial in Rural Uganda

Male partner involvement is a crucial but frequently inadequate element of effective prevention of mother-to-child transmission programmes in sub-Saharan Africa. In rural Uganda, logistical and socio-cultural barriers substantially reduce men's participation in antenatal and PMTCT services. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a multi-component intervention on increasing male partner involvement within a PMTCT programme in rural Uganda. A quasi-experimental trial was implemented at two comparable health centres. The intervention site received a package of targeted couple counselling, appointment reminders via SMS, and a transport subsidy. The comparison site continued with standard of care. The primary outcome was the proportion of male partners attending at least one antenatal PMTCT session with their partner. The intervention significantly increased male partner involvement. At the intervention site, 68% of male partners attended at least one PMTCT session, compared to 24% at the comparison site. Qualitative feedback indicated the transport subsidy was perceived as the most enabling component. A pragmatic, multi-component intervention successfully enhanced male partner involvement in a rural PMTCT programme by addressing key practical and motivational barriers. PMTCT programmes in similar rural contexts should consider integrating tailored support, including transport subsidies and digital reminders, to facilitate male engagement. Further research should explore cost-effectiveness and long-term sustainability. Male involvement, Prevention of mother-to-child transmission, PMTCT, Uganda, Antenatal care, Sub-Saharan Africa This study provides evidence for a feasible, multi-faceted strategy to improve male partner engagement in PMTCT, a persistent challenge in rural African health systems.