This study explored the roles of traditional birth attendants (TBAs) in Somaliland. Historically, TBAs handled pregnancy, childbirth, and harmful practices like female genital mutilation. Today, their role has shifted. They act as trusted links between communities and formal healthcare, helping women access professional maternal and reproductive services. Using TBAs in this way … [Read more...] about Unlocking the potential of traditional birth attendants in Somaliland: a qualitative study on healthcare system integration
Maternal healthcare
Coexisting traditional and biomedical healthcare systems: a mixed-methods analysis of community health workers and traditional birth attendants’ contributions to perinatal health behaviors in rural India
This study looked at how community health workers (ASHAs) and traditional birth attendants (Dais) influence maternal and newborn care in rural Bihar, India. ASHAs mainly supported mothers during pregnancy and labor, helping increase antenatal visits and institutional deliveries. Dais had more influence after birth, promoting traditional practices like newborn massage. When both … [Read more...] about Coexisting traditional and biomedical healthcare systems: a mixed-methods analysis of community health workers and traditional birth attendants’ contributions to perinatal health behaviors in rural India
Community health workers’ usability and acceptability of an mHealth tool for post-cesarean assessments: A mixed-methods study in rural Rwanda
This study tested a mobile phone tool designed to help community health workers support women after cesarean birth in rural Rwanda. Community health workers were trained to use the tool during home visits to check symptoms and share information with health facilities. The workers found the tool easy to use and helpful, and their performance using it was strong. Overall, the … [Read more...] about Community health workers’ usability and acceptability of an mHealth tool for post-cesarean assessments: A mixed-methods study in rural Rwanda
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Traditional Birth Attendants in Bangladesh: A Qualitative Study on Maternal and Newborn Healthcare in Local Community
This study looked at how traditional birth attendants in Bangladesh care for mothers and newborns. It found that they use a mix of helpful and risky practices. Many support good habits like cleanliness and physical activity, but some also rely on traditional methods that may not be safe. Their knowledge and training levels varied. The findings show a need for better training … [Read more...] about Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Traditional Birth Attendants in Bangladesh: A Qualitative Study on Maternal and Newborn Healthcare in Local Community
“Now that they come to our doorsteps to teach us these things…” – Postpartum contraception outcomes from a pre-post effectiveness-implementation study of an integrated community health worker intervention in rural Nepal
This study looked at whether full-time, paid community health workers could improve contraceptive use after childbirth in remote areas of Nepal. After the program started, many more women used contraception both soon after giving birth and later in the postpartum period. Ongoing support from community health workers helped women make decisions despite fears about side effects … [Read more...] about “Now that they come to our doorsteps to teach us these things…” – Postpartum contraception outcomes from a pre-post effectiveness-implementation study of an integrated community health worker intervention in rural Nepal