Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) are individuals who have received informal training and acquired knowledge and skills through cultural customs or traditional practices of assisting women during childbirth in their respective communities. TBAs play a significant role in providing care and support to pregnant women and facilitating childbirth in settings where modern medical facilities and professional healthcare providers may not be easily accessible.
TBAs possess a deep understanding of local customs, beliefs, and traditional healing practices, which they incorporate into their care practices. They often have extensive experience as they have been assisting with births in their communities for generations. Their role involves offering emotional, physical, and spiritual support to pregnant women throughout pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period.
The services provided by TBAs vary in different cultures and communities, but they often include prenatal care, assistance during labor and delivery, postpartum care for the mother and the newborn, and advice on breastfeeding and newborn care. TBAs may also employ traditional remedies and techniques to alleviate discomfort during pregnancy or enhance the chances of a safe delivery.
However, it is essential to note that TBAs do not possess formal medical training and lack the resources to handle potential complications during childbirth. As a result, they should operate within a system that provides referral and access to emergency obstetric care to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the newborn. Increasingly, efforts have been made to integrate TBAs into the formal healthcare system, where they can receive further training, collaborate with skilled birth attendants, and contribute to improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes in underserved communities.
