Introduction: In Nepal, by tradition, family life and marriage are generally controlled by
patriarchal norms, sanctions, values and gender differences. Women in Nepal have limited
possibilities to make decisions regarding their sexual and reproductive health, as the husbands
and other elders in the family make most of the decisions regarding family planning,
pregnancy and childbirth. Aim: To describe the perceptions of Nepali men regarding the role
of the man with respect to family planning, pregnancy and childbirth. Methods: A qualitative
study was conducted with 15 Nepali men in both urban and rural areas. The material was
analyzed through inductive content analysis. Findings: One main category and two generic
categories were identified. One generic category contained six subcategories and the other
five subcategories. The main category was labeled: “He leads – She follows” and the generic
categories were labeled: “Supporting women in family planning, during pregnancy and
childbirth” and “Withdrawal from supporting women in family planning, during pregnancy
and childbirth”. Conclusion: The role of the Nepali men with respect to family planning,
pregnancy and childbirth, was identified as a conflicted approach. This study highlights the
importance of understanding the influence of culture and tradition when developing strategies
for promoting sexual and reproductive health during family planning, pregnancy and
childbirth among families in Nepal.