This qualitative study conducted in Soweto, South Africa, explored the pregnancy and postpartum experiences of young women enrolled in the Bukhali intervention, delivered by community health workers (CHWs). Factors influencing these experiences included feelings about pregnancy, motherhood responsibilities, health challenges, social support, and socioeconomic pressures. The … [Read more...] about The role of a community health worker-delivered preconception and pregnancy intervention in achieving a more positive pregnancy experience: the Bukhali trial in Soweto, South Africa
Maternal healthcare
Association between the use of Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) services and uptake of institutional deliveries in India
This study investigates the impact of Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) on increasing institution-based deliveries in India, focusing on low-performing states. Analyzing National Family Health Survey data, the study reveals that women using ASHA services were 1.6 times more likely to have institution-based deliveries. The study emphasizes the effectiveness of ASHAs in … [Read more...] about Association between the use of Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) services and uptake of institutional deliveries in India
“They’re gonna be there to advocate for me so I’m not by myself”: A qualitative analysis of Black women’s motivations for seeking and experiences with community doula care
The purpose of this study was to explore Black doula clients’ experiences with and motivations for seeking community doula care. A mixed-methods process evaluation was conducted on an organization providing free community doula services in San Francisco, California. Qualitative interviews with doula clients who identified as Black or Pacific Islander were conducted between … [Read more...] about “They’re gonna be there to advocate for me so I’m not by myself”: A qualitative analysis of Black women’s motivations for seeking and experiences with community doula care
The impact of community midwives on maternal healthcare utilization
The goal of this study was to estimate the impact of the Community Midwives Program on maternal healthcare utilization in Pakistan. The Community Midwives Program was introduced by the Government of Pakistan to address the high number of maternal deaths. Under the program, women from across the country were trained and deployed as Community Midwives. Results of this study … [Read more...] about The impact of community midwives on maternal healthcare utilization