Traditional Birth Attendants and Obstetric Risks and Management in Mbiaso Clan, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study explores the understanding of obstetric risks and their management among traditional birth attendants (TBAs) in six rural communities in Mbiaso clan of Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. The communities were selected from a total of 50 which make up the clan through a systematic random sampling technique. A total of 64 TBAs were selected through the use of simple random sampling from the six communities. 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 tonegotiate 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. DOI : 10.7176/JCSD/45-02