Alhikma Alhikma, Isaiah Dada Owoeye, Francis Kirimi Kiara

Mothers and Traditional Birth Attendants: A Phenomenological Exploration of Childbirth Experiences

Introduction

Mothers and traditional birth attendants: a phenomenological exploration of childbirth experiences. Explore mothers' childbirth experiences with traditional birth attendants in Bogor. A phenomenological study reveals sociocultural and psychological dynamics influencing choices.

Abstract

Purpose of the study: This study aims to explore the experiences of mothers giving birth assisted by traditional birth attendants in the working area of ​​the Parung District Health Center, Bogor Regency. Methodology: This study is a qualitative study with a descriptive phenomenological design through in-depth interviews. Participants include mothers who have given birth assisted by traditional birth attendants in the period from January to December 2014 obtained through purposive sampling. The data collected were in the form of interview recordings and field notes analyzed using the Colaizzi method. Main Findings: The results of this study can provide an overview to health workers that the existence of midwives cannot be denied from the lives of communities far from health facilities and the importance of understanding the psychological and sociocultural aspects of mothers who are about to give birth. Further research is needed on in-depth exploration of the psychological and sociocultural aspects of mothers giving birth. Novelty/Originality of this study: This study reveals the social and cultural dynamics that influence mothers' choices in using traditional birth attendant services, which have not been widely revealed in previous studies using a phenomenological approach.

Review

This study proposes a timely and relevant phenomenological exploration into the childbirth experiences of mothers assisted by traditional birth attendants (TBAs) in the Parung District, Bogor Regency. The clear objective—to understand the lived experiences of these mothers—addresses a critical gap in maternal health literature, particularly concerning communities with limited access to formal health facilities. The choice of a qualitative, descriptive phenomenological design, employing in-depth interviews and the Colaizzi analysis method, is entirely appropriate for capturing the subjective and intricate narratives central to such an inquiry. This approach promises to yield rich insights into the complexities surrounding maternal choices and perceptions regarding TBA services, an area often overlooked in quantitative assessments of childbirth outcomes. While the methodology is well-suited for the stated purpose, the presentation of "Main Findings" in the abstract is somewhat broad, leaning more towards implications or recommendations rather than specific phenomenological themes. A phenomenological study typically unearths detailed, nuanced categories of lived experience, and the abstract's summary, which emphasizes the undeniable existence of TBAs and the importance for health workers to understand psychological and sociocultural aspects, feels more like a high-level conclusion. This raises questions about the depth of experiential detail that will be presented in the full paper. The claim of "novelty" in revealing social and cultural dynamics influencing mothers' choices is compelling, suggesting a unique contribution to the existing body of work, particularly through a phenomenological lens. However, the abstract itself does not provide enough specific detail regarding these dynamics to fully substantiate this claim. Despite the abstract's generalized portrayal of findings, the study's focus holds significant value. It underscores the persistent reality of TBA utilization in remote areas and calls for a more empathetic and culturally informed approach from healthcare providers. The recommendation for further research into the psychological and sociocultural aspects directly aligns with the initial stated importance, highlighting a continuous need for deeper understanding in this domain. Ultimately, this work has the potential to enrich our understanding of community health practices and inform more effective, culturally sensitive maternal care strategies, thereby contributing meaningfully to public health discourse surrounding traditional birth practices.

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