TRADITIONAL BIRTH ATTENDANTS AND MANAGEMENT OF CHILDBIRTH RELATED RISKS IN ODIO COMMUNITY, EKET LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA
Itimitang Wilson Etukudo
Department of Sociology/Anthropology
University of Uyo
Email: dritimitang@yahoo.com,itimitang8@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
This study explores the understanding of childbirth related risks and their management among traditional birth attendants (TBAs) in six villages in Odio community of Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. A total of 30 TBAs were selected through the use of simple random sampling from the six villages. An in-depth interview technique was used in collecting information from the respondents. Findings from the study underscore that, quite contrary to popular views, TBAs are not unaware of the risks in obstetric care, and they rely on various strategies to negotiate the risks they face when providing maternity care. The TBAs could be a big asset in decreasing high rate of obstetric complications in the developing countries. To be effective they need to be trained in timely recognition and referrals of mothers at risk, cleanliness and be respected by doctors and nurses.
Keywords: Traditional Birth Attendants, obstetric risk, risk management, rural Nigeria.
