Role of male partners in the long-term well-being of women who have experienced severe pre-eclampsia and eclampsia in rural Tanzania: a qualitative study

Men can be essential sources of support in maternal health, even more so in case of severe acute maternal morbidity (SAMM), affecting 1–2% of childbearing women in low-resource settings. In a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews, we explored the perspectives of nine male partners of women who suffered from (pre-)eclampsia six to seven years earlier in rural Tanzania. Male partners considered their role to be pivotal regarding finances, decision-making in healthcare-seeking and family planning and provided physical and emotional support. After SAMM, households may be affected in the long run. Some men took over their female partner’s household duties until up to two years after birth. Providing men with more information on complication readiness and birth preparedness would enable them to extend their role in maternal morbidity prevention.