MATERNAL BEHAVIOUR IN SELECTING TRADITIONAL BIRTH ATTENDANTS TO ASSIST THE DELIVERY IN KELINJAU ULU VILLAGE MUARA ANCALONG EAST KUTAI EAST KALIMANTAN

Abstract

Background: Low rate of deliveries assisted by trained delivery attendants is one of the major causes of maternal mortality. The role of traditional birth attendants (TBAs) is still dominant especially in rural areas. Objective: To identify maternal behaviour and culture aspects that influenced mother decision to use TBAs during childbirth. Methods: This research used qualitative approaches. In-depth interviews were conducted with 10 mothers who were assisted by TBAs during childbirth, 2 TBAs, and 1 health personnel. Results: TBAs played a vital role in the community, through their supports towards women during the pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum period. TBAs assisted women during childbirths voluntarily, free of charge, and only received some food or cash as a token of appreciation. TBAs also had important role during childbirth ceremony. Mothers perceived delivery by health personnel to be painful. They also felt insecure and ashamed to open their vagina in front of the midwife. Additionally, the absence of health personnel due to geographical constraints also forced mothers to deliver with TBAs. Conclusions: It is recommended to promote the benefit of institutional delivery or delivery assisted by health personnel during antenatal care services. During TBA training, health personnel should highlight the role of TBA only as an assistant to provide emotional and social supports to women during labour and childbirth