Qualitative study reveals maternal healthcare disruptions in Kenya during the COVID-19 pandemic, indicating the need for improved support for traditional birth attendants.
Key Points
Women reported significant emotional and instrumental support during childbirth outside healthcare facilities, despite concerns.
One-third of women relied on traditional birth attendants during the pandemic, facing challenges in accessing proper maternal healthcare.
The descriptive qualitative study involved in-depth interviews with 28 Kenyan women giving birth outside facilities from March to November 2020.
Findings highlight gaps in person-centered maternity care, emphasizing the need for enhanced training and support for birth attendants.