A study of male friendly approach in obstetrics and gynaecology outpatient department
Background: Involvement of male relative in management of female reproductive disorders is low in many countries including India. Active participation of male relatives by establishing male friendly approach in Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBGY) outpatient department is a novel concept. This study explores the perceptions of male relatives accompanying the patients regarding male friendly approach which constitutes attitude of medical and paramedical staff towards them, involvement of male relatives in counseling and their role in decision making in obstetrics and gynecology outpatient department.Methods: This prospective study was carried out over three months in Obstetrics-Gynecology outpatient department of a tertiary care teaching hospital. Male relatives accompanying the patient were enrolled in the study. The participants were allowed to remain present at the time of history taking and post examination counseling. They were also asked to be part of the decision making whenever required. Feedback from the male relatives was obtained using a questionnaire.Results: Out of 450 patients attending the OBGY Outpatient Department (OPD) during the three months study period 100 were accompanied by male relatives. Participation in decision making was the commonest reason for accompanying the patient (36%). All the male relatives involved in this study were satisfied with the approach of doctor and paramedical staff and 85% were willing to accompany their female relative at every visit.Conclusions: Making health services for women more male friendly would increase participation of male relative in healthcare of female reproductive disorders. This can improve women’s health and eventually reduce maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality.