Role and Status of Traditional Birth Attendants in Maternal Care Among the Gaddi Tribe of Himachal Pradesh: A Case Study

Abstract

Traditional birth attendants play a significant role as primary healthcare providers of pre-natal and ante-natal care in many low-income countries including India. The present case study explores the role and status of traditional birth attendants among the tribal women of Gaddi community, who live in isolated, mountainous regions with challenging weather conditions and economic disadvantages. Interview schedules and oral narratives were used to gather information on the socio-economic background, motivation factors and difficulties encountered by traditional birth attendants during child birth assistance. A brief information on pre-natal and ante-natal care given by traditional birth attendants is also documented. Relative backwardness, hilly terrain and geographical isolation of the tribal areas, poor socio-economic status of women, harsh climatic conditions, poor and distant healthcare facilities and cultural proximity with traditional birth attendants were the major factors responsible for patronizing the services of TBAs in childbirth assistance at homes within the Gaddi tribe of Himachal Pradesh.