Maternal healthcare

Understanding Maternal Nutrition Through the Voices of Community Health Workers and Mother Mentors in Limpopo Province, South Africa

This study in Limpopo, South Africa explored what community health workers and mother mentors know and experience when supporting pregnant women with healthy nutrition. Interviews with 45 workers found that they understood the importance of good nutrition but faced challenges such as cultural beliefs, poverty, limited resources, misinformation, and concerns about pregnancy … [Read more...] about Understanding Maternal Nutrition Through the Voices of Community Health Workers and Mother Mentors in Limpopo Province, South Africa

This study explored how communication between community health workers (ASHAs) and pregnant women influences the use of maternal health services in rural India. Women reported that ASHAs regularly provided helpful information on pregnancy care, nutrition, mental health, government health programs, and possible pregnancy complications, which helped build trust and support. While … [Read more...] about A qualitative examination of interpersonal communication between Community Health Workers (CHW) and pregnant women in Kerala, India

This study looked at how a mobile phone app helped community health workers in rural India improve their work. After using the app, the workers showed better knowledge and stronger skills in providing health services, and most were able to use the technology easily on their own. The study found that mobile tools like M-SAKHI can help community health workers work more … [Read more...] about Evaluation of Impact of the M-SAKHI mHealth App on Knowledge, Skills and Acceptance of use of App by Maternal and Child Health Community Health Workers in Rural Maharashtra

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

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