JOURNAL OF LIAONING TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY
(NATURAL SCIENCE EDITION)
LIAONING GONGCHENG JISHU DAXUE XUEBAO (ZIRAN KEXUE BAN)
辽宁工程技术大学学报（自然科学版）
MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH CARE PROCESSES BETWEEN SKILLED AND TRADITIONAL BIRTH ATTENDANTS IN EKITI STATE
AKUTE, Yewande Ifelola, Dr. REGIDOR III Poblete Dioso, ELUSOJI, Christiana I. (Ph.D), MUNGE, Mary, OGUNFOWOKAN, Gbenga (Ph.D)
Abstract
This study aimed to assess maternal and child healthcare processes involving Skilled Birth Attendants (SBAs) and Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) in Ekiti State. Specific objectives included investigating delivery methods, antenatal, delivery, and newborn care procedures, the content of health talks for pregnant women, participants in group discussions, means of instrument sterilization, and the process of referral in cases of emergencies. The study employed a qualitative phenomenological approach and included interviews with SBAs, and TBAs. Findings revealed that both SBAs and TBAs are actively involved in delivering care to pregnant women, offering antenatal education, monitoring, and facilitating childbirth. However, challenges such as financial constraints, limited access to skilled services, transportation issues, and difficulties in referrals and TBA recognition hinder optimal care provision. Recommendations were made to strengthen referral systems, improve access to skilled healthcare, and enhance TBAs' knowledge and skills through training. These recommendations aim to address the identified barriers and improve maternal and child healthcare services, especially in underserved areas.
Keywords: Maternal health care, Child health care, Skilled birth attendant, Traditional birth attendant