Why some dads in Maluku skip prenatal checkups—and why it matters

In the scattered islands of Maluku, Indonesia, having a baby is a team effort—but not every team shows up the same way. Many fathers skip routine prenatal visits, even though their presence could make pregnancy safer for mothers and newborns. The problem isn’t just distance to clinics or rough roads. Deep-rooted family rules and religious customs often decide who makes decisions at home. Men who grew up believing pregnancy is a woman’s job may not see their role as supporters in these visits. Experts wonder why this gap exists. Most studies focus on mothers, leaving fathers’ choices ignored. But in places where men hold financial and social power, their habits shape health outcomes for everyone. If a dad decides to stay away, the whole family pays the price—longer travel times, missed advice, and higher risks during birth.Remote clinics add another hurdle. Some villages have no doctor nearby, leaving families to travel for hours just to reach basic care. Even when services exist, cultural beliefs can block change. For example, some communities view pregnancy as private, so outsiders—even health workers—aren’t welcome inside homes. These walls make it harder for dads to learn about danger signs or nutrition during pregnancy. The real question isn’t just why men skip these visits. It’s why no one asks them to join in the first place. When fathers feel excluded from prenatal care, their wives lose support at a critical time. Programs that ignore men’s beliefs miss a chance to improve health for both parents and babies. Small shifts—like flexible clinic hours or male-friendly education—could open doors. But first, the system must recognize that fathers matter too.