An assessment of traditional birth attendants as an untapped human resource to help sustain the health system in South Africa

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore motivations and experiences of women who became traditional birth attendants in South Africa. The study was designed to clarify some potential advantages of their integration into the health system to sustain maternal and child health services. A qualitative thematic analysis of 15 transcripts of semi-structured interviews with traditional birth attendants from seven provinces of South Africa, obtained from Human Sciences Research Council repository, was conducted. Data was analysed thematically guided by the framework analysis approach. Findings show that a critical situation characterised by lack of access to health facilities, skilled birth attendants, and ambulances, motivated women to learn the required skills to assist pregnant women in their communities. They learned the required skills through observation and practice under the guidance of experienced elders and some nurses. Traditional births attendants operated without government support but continued to provide valuable services to communities. Given the devastating impact of COVID-19 on the health system and persistent challenges with access to skilled birth attendants, the role of traditional births attendants should be revived to participate in maternal and child health services as partners with government. This will strengthen safe and accessible birth and other health services for women within their communities.