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Gelaw KA, Atalay YA, Walle BG, Gesese MM, Assfaw BB, Gebeyehu NA. Prevalence and Associated Factors of Cultural Malpractice During the Perinatal Period in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:661-674. [PMID: 37917296 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01383-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
The health of the mother and children are potentially affected by several types of cultural malpractices that occur during the perinatal period. Ethiopia is a multi-ethnic nation where a variety of cultural practices are observed, especially during pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of cultural malpractice during the perinatal period in Ethiopia. Data searches were conducted in PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, African Journals Online, and the Cochrane Library. Data were extracted using Microsoft Excel, and analysis was done using STATA version 14. Less than a p-value of 0.05 was regarded to indicate potential publication bias: the funnel plot, Begg, and Egger's regression tests were used to examine publication bias. This study included 18 studies and 7880 mothers. The pooled prevalence of cultural malpractice during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum was 34.95% (95% CI: 27, 42.56), 31.18% (95% CI: 19.61, 42.76), and 45.83% (95% CI: 34.22, 57.45) respectively in Ethiopia. In addition, the following factors are statistically associated with the perinatal period: pregnancy: ANC follow-up (AOR = 3.06, 95%CI = 2.04, 4.58), educational status (AOR = 3.30, 95%CI = 1.99, 5.48), and residence (AOR 2.47, 95%CI, 1.601, 3.81); childbirth: ANC follow-up (AOR = 9.94, 95%CI = 2.05, 48.09), maternal age (AOR = 2.27, 95%CI = 1.56, 3.29), and maternal education (AOR = 10.37, 95%CI = 6.145, 17.51); during postpartum: ANC follow-up (AOR = 3.67, 95%CI = 1.96, 6.844), maternal education (AOR = 6.87, 95%CI = 3.26, 14.49), and residence AOR4.79, 95%CI, 2.97, 7.49). The pooled prevalence of cultural malpractice during the perinatal period was high. Health professionals should encourage beneficial practices through health education for a healthy perinatal period for mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelemu Abebe Gelaw
- School of Midwifery, College of Health Science and Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia.
| | - Yibeltal Assefa Atalay
- School of Public Health, College of Health Science and Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia
| | - Belete Gelaw Walle
- School of Nursing, College of Health Science and Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia
| | - Molalegn Mesele Gesese
- School of Midwifery, College of Health Science and Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia
| | - Belete Birhan Assfaw
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Science and Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia
| | - Natnael Atnafu Gebeyehu
- School of Midwifery, College of Health Science and Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia
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Shen Q, Huang CR, Du WW, Li JY, Redding SR, Ouyang YQ. Galactagogue Food Consumption, Perception of Insufficient Milk Supply, and Exclusive Breastfeeding in Chinese Postpartum Women: An Analysis of Repeated Measures. J Transcult Nurs 2023; 34:365-374. [PMID: 37395493 DOI: 10.1177/10436596231184650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Little research has explored galactagogue food consumption in China. This study aims to investigate consumption patterns and how they relate to perceived insufficient milk supply and exclusive breastfeeding. METHODS Data were collected from postpartum women in China at six time points: baseline demographic questionnaire before hospital discharge (T0), galactagogue food questionnaire at 1 month postpartum (T1), Hill and Humenick Lactation Scale at 6 weeks postpartum (T2), and breastfeeding practices at 1, 2, 3 and 4 months postpartum (T1, T3, T4, T5). RESULTS Of 218 participants who completed the galactagogue food questionnaire, 64.68% were consumers. No association was found between galactagogue food consumption and perceived insufficient milk supply. Consumers were less likely to breastfeed exclusively. DISCUSSION Future research should emphasize a deeper understanding of consumer behaviors and family support in providing professional guidance on postpartum nutrition that considers not only social and cultural experiences but also broader medical aspects.
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Nguyen PY, Caddy C, Wilson AN, Blackburn K, Page MJ, Gülmezoglu AM, Narasimhan M, Bonet M, Tunçalp Ö, Vogel JP. Self-care interventions for preconception, antenatal, intrapartum and postpartum care: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e068713. [PMID: 37164476 PMCID: PMC10173967 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-068713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify current and emerging self-care interventions to improve maternity healthcare. DESIGN Scoping review. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, Embase, EmCare, PsycINFO, Cochrane CENTRAL/CDSR, CINAHL Plus (last searched on 17 October 2021). ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Evidence syntheses, interventional or observational studies describing any tool, resource or strategy to facilitate self-care in women preparing to get pregnant, currently pregnant, giving birth or post partum. DATA EXTRACTION/SYNTHESIS Screening and data collection were conducted independently by two reviewers. Self-care interventions were identified based on predefined criteria and inductively organised into 11 categories. Characteristics of study design, interventions, participants and outcomes were recorded. RESULTS We identified eligible 580 studies. Many included studies evaluated interventions in high-income countries (45%) and during antenatal care (76%). Self-care categories featuring highest numbers of studies were diet and nutrition (26% of all studies), physical activity (24%), psychosocial strategies (18%) and other lifestyle adjustments (17%). Few studies featured self-care interventions for sexual health and postpartum family planning (2%), self-management of medication (3%) and self-testing/sampling (3%). Several venues to introduce self-care were described: health facilities (44%), community venues (14%), digital platforms (18%), partner/peer support (7%) or over-the-counter products (13%). Involvement of health and community workers were described in 38% and 8% of studies, who supported self-care interventions by providing therapeutics for home use, training or counselling. The most common categories of outcomes evaluated were neonatal outcomes (eg, birth weight) (31%), maternal mental health (26%) and labour outcomes (eg, duration of labour) (22%). CONCLUSION Self-care interventions in maternal care are diverse in their applications, implementation characteristics and intended outcomes. Many self-care interventions were implemented with support from the health system at initial stages of use and uptake. Some promising self-care interventions require further primary research, though several are matured and up-to-date evidence syntheses are needed. Research on self-care in the preconception period is lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phi-Yen Nguyen
- Methods in Evidence Synthesis Unit, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- International Development, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Cassandra Caddy
- International Development, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alyce N Wilson
- International Development, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kara Blackburn
- International Development, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthew J Page
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Manjulaa Narasimhan
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mercedes Bonet
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Özge Tunçalp
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Joshua P Vogel
- International Development, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Matsuda K, Shiraishi M, Hori N, Horiguchi H, Matsuzaki M. Psychosocial Experiences Related to Dietary Behavior of Japanese Lactating Women: A Qualitative Study. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15030789. [PMID: 36771501 PMCID: PMC9920491 DOI: 10.3390/nu15030789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Adequate dietary intake during the lactation period is important for breast milk components, postpartum recovery, and physical and mental health. This study aimed to clarify the psychosocial experiences related to dietary behavior around one month postpartum among Japanese lactating women. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 women between February and June 2022 in Osaka, Japan. The data were analyzed using qualitative descriptive approaches. Four core categories were identified. All participants had a [desire to have healthy meals for themselves or their families] to improve their postpartum health, regain their pre-pregnancy body shape, produce sufficient and good-quality breast milk, and keep their families healthy. Some participants, who had [subjective difficulties in getting information on diet and preparing meals] due to insufficient or complicated information and viewing meal preparation as a burden, used [services and support regarding their postpartum diet] to alleviate these difficulties. They had [postpartum-specific appetite and dietary views], including an increased appetite triggered by breastfeeding and postpartum stress and the effects of the dietary changes during pregnancy. Some of these psychosocial experiences were influenced by Japanese traditional customs in the postpartum period and familiar food preferences in the Japanese. Healthcare professionals should consider these experiences when providing tailored dietary guidance.
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Bottemanne H, Charron M, Joly L. [Perinatal beliefs: Neurocognitive mechanisms and cultural specificities]. GYNECOLOGIE, OBSTETRIQUE, FERTILITE & SENOLOGIE 2022; 50:542-552. [PMID: 35288367 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Perinatal beliefs contribute to the experience of pregnancy and the process of parenthood. Many of these perinatal beliefs have been perpetuated and evolved over time and throughout the world, exerting their influence on the behavior of pregnant women in interaction with medical recommendations. These beliefs generally offer explanations for gravidic and puerperal phenomena, helping to reduce the uncertainty of parents faced with the biological, psychological and social transitions of pregnancy. But certain beliefs can also be harmful, and alter the maternal experience of pregnancy and postpartum. In this paper, we provide an overview of the beliefs associated with the perinatal period. We successively detail the beliefs concerning fertility, pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum, specifying the cultural beliefs from other cultures interacting with medical recommendations. Finally, we propose a neurocognitive model of perinatal beliefs generation, and we show the need to know these beliefs to improve care in midwifery, obstetrics, and fetal medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Bottemanne
- Department of Psychiatry, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, DMU Neurosciences, Sorbonne University/Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France; Paris Brain Institute - Institut du Cerveau (ICM), UMR 7225/UMRS 1127, Sorbonne University/CNRS/INSERM, Paris, France; Sorbonne University, Department of Philosophy, SND Research Unit, UMR 8011, CNRS, Paris, France.
| | - Morgane Charron
- Department of Psychiatry, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, DMU Neurosciences, Sorbonne University/Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
| | - Lucie Joly
- Department of Psychiatry, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, DMU Neurosciences, Sorbonne University/Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
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Sibeko L, Johns T, Cordeiro LS. Traditional plant use during lactation and postpartum recovery: Infant development and maternal health roles. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 279:114377. [PMID: 34192598 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Evidence of phytochemical roles in infant development and maternal recovery offers insights into beneficial functions of traditional plant use during lactation and the postpartum period. Ethnopharmacological research has relevance to global priorities on maternal and child health, to understanding origins and determinants of human self-medication, and for reconciling traditional postpartum practices and mainstream healthcare. AIM OF THE STUDY Present emerging evidence, within evolutionary and socio-cultural contexts, on the role of maternal consumption on transfer of phytochemicals into breast milk with impacts on maternal and child health, and on infant development. Establish current state of knowledge and an ethnopharmacological research agenda that is attentive to cross-cultural and regional differences in postpartum plant use. MATERIALS AND METHODS An extensive literature review using Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science focused on traditional and contemporary use and socio-cultural context, as well as physiological, pharmacological, toxicological, and behavioral activities of plants used medicinally by women during postpartum recovery and lactation. RESULTS The most widely reported postpartum plants show antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, immunological, and neurophysiological activities, with low toxicity. Phytochemicals transfer from maternal consumption into breast milk in physiological concentrations, while animal studies demonstrate immunomodulation and other actions of medicinal plants during lactation. Reporting on the use and diverse traditional knowledge of women about plants during the postpartum period is obscured by the marginal place of obstetric issues and by gender biases in ethnobotanical research. In many contemporary contexts use is prejudiced by precautionary risk warnings in health literature and practice that confound lactation with pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS Although systematic investigation of postpartum plant use is lacking, known pharmacological activities support potential benefits on infant development and maternal health with immediate and long-term consequences in relation to allergic, inflammatory, autoimmune, and other diseases. An ethnopharmacological agenda focused on the perinatal period requires directed methodologies and a regional approach in relation to culturally-specific knowledge and practices, traditional plant use, and local health needs. Testing the hypothesis that phytochemicals transferred from medicinal plants into breast milk impact the human immune system and other aspects of infant development requires extended analysis of phytochemicals in human milk and infant lumen and plasma, as well as effects on gastrointestinal and milk microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindiwe Sibeko
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA.
| | - Timothy Johns
- School of Human Nutrition, McGill University, Ste. Anne de Bellevue, QC, H9X 3V9, Canada.
| | - Lorraine S Cordeiro
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA.
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Watson D, Kehoe SH, Erzse A, Compaoré A, Debpuur C, Nonterah EA, Sorgho H, Norris SA, Hofman KJ, Lawrence W, Newell ML, Godfrey KM, Ward KA, Barker M. Community perspectives on maternal and child health during nutrition and economic transition in sub-Saharan Africa. Public Health Nutr 2021; 24:3710-3718. [PMID: 32928324 PMCID: PMC10195324 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980020003018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore community perceptions on maternal and child nutrition issues in Sub-Saharan Africa. DESIGN Thirty focus groups with men and women from three communities facilitated by local researchers. SETTING One urban (Soweto, South Africa) and two rural settings (Navrongo, Ghana and Nanoro, Burkina Faso) at different stages of economic transition. PARTICIPANTS Two hundred thirty-seven men and women aged 18-55 years, mostly subsistence farmers in Navrongo and Nanoro and low income in Soweto. RESULTS Differences in community concerns about maternal and child health and nutrition reflected the transitional stage of the country. Community priorities revolved around poor nutrition and hunger caused by poverty, lack of economic opportunity and traditional gender roles. Men and women felt they had limited control over food and other resources. Women wanted men to take more responsibility for domestic chores, including food provision, while men wanted more involvement in their families but felt unable to provide for them. Solutions suggested focusing on ways of increasing control over economic production, family life and domestic food supplies. Rural communities sought agricultural support, while the urban community wanted regulation of the food environment. CONCLUSIONS To be acceptable and effective, interventions to improve maternal and child nutrition need to take account of communities' perceptions of their needs and address wider determinants of nutritional status and differences in access to food reflecting the stage of the country's economic transition. Findings suggest that education and knowledge are necessary but not sufficient to support improvements in women's and children's nutritional status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniella Watson
- Global Health Research Institute, School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, SouthamptonSO16 5YA, UK
| | - Sarah H Kehoe
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Agnes Erzse
- SAMRC Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science, PRICELESS, University of Witwatersrand School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Adélaïde Compaoré
- Clinical Research Unit of Nanoro, Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Nanoro, Burkina Faso
| | - Cornelius Debpuur
- Navrongo Health Research Centre, Ghana Health Service, Navrongo, Ghana
| | | | - Hermann Sorgho
- Clinical Research Unit of Nanoro, Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Nanoro, Burkina Faso
| | - Shane A Norris
- Global Health Research Institute, School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, SouthamptonSO16 5YA, UK
- SAMRC Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Karen J Hofman
- SAMRC Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science, PRICELESS, University of Witwatersrand School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Wendy Lawrence
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Marie-Louise Newell
- Global Health Research Institute, School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, SouthamptonSO16 5YA, UK
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Keith M Godfrey
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Kate A Ward
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mary Barker
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Whitfield KC, Smith TJ, Rohner F, Wieringa FT, Green TJ. Thiamine fortification strategies in low- and middle-income settings: a review. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2021; 1498:29-45. [PMID: 33496051 PMCID: PMC8451796 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.14565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Thiamine (vitamin B1 ) is an essential micronutrient in energy metabolism and cognitive and neurological health. Thiamine deficiency disorders (TDDs) have a range of clinical presentations that result in various morbidities and can be fatal if not promptly recognized and treated, especially in infants. To intervene, thiamine intakes by breastfeeding mothers and others at risk of thiamine deficiency should be increased to ensure adequate thiamine intake. Although thiamine fortification programs have a long history in high-income countries, there are few mandatory fortification programs to address TDDs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), particularly in the regions of greatest concern, South and Southeast Asia. This review highlights essential aspects for consideration in the development of a mandatory fortification program in LMICs, including an overview of the data required to model fortification dosing schemes, available thiamine fortificants, and potential fortification vehicles, as well as identifies current knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyly C. Whitfield
- Department of Applied Human NutritionMount Saint Vincent UniversityHalifaxNova ScotiaCanada
| | - Taryn J. Smith
- Institute for Global NutritionUniversity of California DavisDavisCalifornia
| | | | - Frank T. Wieringa
- UMR‐95 QualiSud, French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD)CIRAD/IRD/University of Montpellier/SupAgro/University of Avignon/University of RéunionAvignonFrance
| | - Tim J. Green
- SAHMRI Women and KidsSouth Australian Health and Medical Research InstituteAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
- School of MedicineUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
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Ray H, Sobiech KL, Alexandrova M, Songok JJ, Rukunga J, Bucher S. Critical Interpretive Synthesis of Qualitative Data on the Health Care Ecosystem for Vulnerable Newborns in Low- to Middle-Income Countries. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2021; 50:549-560. [PMID: 34302768 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2021.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To critically assess and synthesize qualitative findings regarding the health care ecosystem for vulnerable (low-birth-weight or sick) neonates in low- to middle-income countries (LMICs). DATA SOURCES Between May 4 and June 2, 2020, we searched four databases (Medline [PubMed], SCOPUS, PsycINFO, and Web of Science) for articles published from 2010 to 2020. Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed reports of original studies focused on the health care ecosystem for vulnerable neonates in LMICs. We also searched the websites of several international development agencies and included findings from primary data collected between May and July 2019 at a tertiary hospital in Kenya. We excluded studies and reports if the focus was on healthy neonates or high-income countries and if they contained only quantitative data, were written in a language other than English, or were published before 2010. STUDY SELECTION One of the primary authors conducted an initial review of titles and abstracts (n = 102) and excluded studies that were not consistent with the purpose of the review (n = 60). The two primary authors used a qualitative appraisal checklist to assess the validity of the remaining studies (n = 42) and reached agreement on the final 13 articles. DATA EXTRACTION The two primary authors independently conducted open and axial coding of the data. We incorporated data from studies with different units of analysis, types of methodology, research topics, participant types, and analytical frameworks in an emergent conceptual development process according to the critical interpretive synthesis methodology. DATA SYNTHESIS We synthesized our findings into one overarching theme, Pervasive Turbulence Is a Defining Characteristic of the Health Care Ecosystem in LMICs, and two subthemes: Pervasive Turbulence May Cause Tension Between the Setting and the Caregiver and Pervasive Turbulence May Result in a Loss of Synergy in the Caregiver-Parent Relationship. CONCLUSION Because pervasive turbulence characterizes the health care ecosystems in LMICs, interventions are needed to support the caregiver-parent interaction to mitigate the effects of tension in the setting.
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Dalaba MA, Nonterah EA, Chatio ST, Adoctor JK, Watson D, Barker M, Ward KA, Debpuur C. Culture and community perceptions on diet for maternal and child health: a qualitative study in rural northern Ghana. BMC Nutr 2021; 7:36. [PMID: 34261513 PMCID: PMC8281629 DOI: 10.1186/s40795-021-00439-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study explored cultural and community perceptions of optimal diet for maternal and child health in northern Ghana. Methods This was an exploratory cross-sectional study using qualitative methods for data collection. Data were collected between March and April 2019 consisting of 10 focus group discussions with men and women community members between 18 and 50 years in the Kassena-Nankana districts of Ghana. Data were organised using QSR NVivo 12 qualitative software to facilitate thematic analysis. Results All study participants recognised the importance of an optimal diet for mother, child and better pregnancy and breastfeeding outcomes. However, there were different cultural beliefs and taboos about what foods are healthy and non-healthy for women at different stages of the reproductive period. Foods perceived to be unhealthy for pregnant women were fatty foods and fresh meat (uncooked or unprocessed meat) due to the belief that they can lead to delivery complications, which many women feared. In addition, some participants relayed the cultural belief that pregnant woman should not eat eggs because it would make the child a thief. Lactating mothers are not to eat foods such as vigna subterranean known locally as bambara bean and “gari” (local meal made from cassava) because it is believed to inhibit breastmilk production. Participants emphasised that food insecurity and economic constraints meant women could not achieve optimal diet and could not afford to be selective in food choices. Conclusion Community members recognized the importance of optimal nutrition but were constrained by poverty and cultural barriers. A dual approach which targets improvements of local food production and economic empowerment in combination with community-based discussion and education of the impacts of food taboos on health, should facilitate improvement in the diets of women and future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell A Dalaba
- Institute of Health Research, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana.
| | - Engelbert A Nonterah
- Navrongo Health Research Centre, Research and Development Division, Ghana Health Service, Navrongo, Ghana.,Julius Global Health, Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Samuel T Chatio
- Navrongo Health Research Centre, Research and Development Division, Ghana Health Service, Navrongo, Ghana
| | - James K Adoctor
- Navrongo Health Research Centre, Research and Development Division, Ghana Health Service, Navrongo, Ghana
| | - Daniella Watson
- Global Health Research Institute, School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Mary Barker
- MRC Life Course Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK.,School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Kate A Ward
- MRC Life Course Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Cornelius Debpuur
- Navrongo Health Research Centre, Research and Development Division, Ghana Health Service, Navrongo, Ghana
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Abebe H, Beyene GA, Mulat BS. Harmful cultural practices during perinatal period and associated factors among women of childbearing age in Southern Ethiopia: Community based cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254095. [PMID: 34214133 PMCID: PMC8253409 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although the maternal mortality ratio has decreased by 38% in the last decade, 810 women die from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth every day, and two-thirds of maternal deaths occur in Sub-Saharan Africa alone. The lives of women and newborns before, during, and after childbirth can be saved by skilled care. The main factors that prevent women from receiving care during pregnancy and childbirth are harmful cultural practices. The aim of this study was to assess the level of harmful cultural practices during pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal period, and associated factors among women of childbearing age in Southern Ethiopia. METHODS A community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted in the Gurage zone, among representative sample of 422 women of reproductive age who had at least one history of childbirth. A simple random sampling technique was used to recruit participants. Data were collected by six experienced and trained data collectors using a pretested structured questionnaire with face to face interviews. Harmful cultural practices are assessed using 11 questions and those who participate in any one of them are considered as harmful cultural practices. Descriptive statistics were performed and the findings were presented in text and tables. Binary logistic regression was used to assess the association between each independent variable and outcome variable. RESULTS Harmful cultural practices were found to be 71.4% [95%CI, 66.6-76.0]. The mean age of study participants was 27.6 (SD ± 5.4 years). Women with no formal education [AOR 3.79; 95%CI, 1.97-7.28], being a rural resident [AOR 4.41, 95%CI, 2.63-7.39], having had no antenatal care in the last pregnancy [AOR 2.62, 95%CI, 1.54-4.48], and pregnancy being attended by untrained attendants [AOR 2.67, 95%CI, 1.58-4.51] were significantly associated with harmful cultural practice during the perinatal period. CONCLUSION In this study we found that low maternal education, rural residence, lack of antenatal care and lack of trained birth attendant were independent risk factors associated with women employing harmful cultural practices during the perinatal period. Thus, strong multi-sectoral collaboration targeted at improving women's educational status and primary health care workers should take up the active role of women's health education on the importance of ANC visits to tackle harmful cultural practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haimanot Abebe
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences and Medicine, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
| | - Girma Alemayehu Beyene
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences and Medicine, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
| | - Berhanu Semra Mulat
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences and Medicine, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
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Sibeko L, Johns T. Global survey of medicinal plants during lactation and postpartum recovery: Evolutionary perspectives and contemporary health implications. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 270:113812. [PMID: 33450288 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.113812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Cross-cultural comparison of plants used during lactation and the postpartum period offers insight into a largely overlooked area of ethnopharmacological research. Potential roles of phytochemicals in emerging models of interaction among immunity, inflammation, microbiome and nervous system effects on perinatal development have relevance for the life-long health of individuals and of populations in both traditional and contemporary contexts. AIM OF THE STUDY Delineate and interpret patterns of traditional and contemporary global use of medicinal plants ingested by mothers during the postpartum period relative to phytochemical activity on immune development and gastrointestinal microbiome of breastfed infants, and on maternal health. MATERIALS AND METHODS Published reviews and surveys on galactagogues and postpartum recovery practices plus ethnobotanical studies from around the world were used to identify and rank plants, and ascertain regional use patterns. Scientific literature for 20 most-cited plants based on frequency of publication was assessed for antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antidepressant, analgesic, galactagogic and safety properties. RESULTS From compilation of 4418 use reports related to 1948 species, 105 plant taxa were recorded ≥7 times, with the most frequently cited species, Foeniculum vulgare, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Pimpinella anisum, Euphorbia hirta and Asparagus racemosus, 81, 64, 42, 40 and 38 times, respectively. Species and use vary globally, illustrated by the pattern of aromatic plants of culinary importance versus latex-producing plants utilized in North Africa/Middle East and Sub-Saharan Africa with opposing predominance. For 18/20 of the plants a risk/benefit perspective supports assessment that positive immunomodulation and related potential exceed any safety concerns. Published evidence does not support a lactation-enhancing effect for nearly all the most-cited plants while antidepressant data for the majority of plants are predominately limited to animal studies. CONCLUSIONS Within a biocultural context traditional postpartum plant use serves adaptive functions for the mother-infant dyad and contributes phytochemicals absent in most contemporary diets and patterns of ingestion, with potential impacts on allergic, inflammatory and other conditions. Polyphenolics and other phytochemicals are widely immunologically active, present in breast milk and predominately non-toxic. Systematic analysis of phytochemicals in human milk, infant lumen and plasma, and immunomodulatory studies that differentiate maternal ingestion during lactation from pregnancy, are needed. Potential herb-drug interaction and other adverse effects should remain central to obstetric advising, but unless a plant is specifically shown as harmful, considering potential contributions to health of individuals and populations, blanket advisories against postpartum herbal use during lactation appear empirically unwarranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindiwe Sibeko
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA.
| | - Timothy Johns
- School of Human Nutrition, McGill University, Ste. Anne de Bellevue, QC, H9X 3V9, Canada.
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Towards identifying malnutrition among infants under 6 months: a mixed-methods study of South-Sudanese refugees in Ethiopia. Public Health Nutr 2020; 24:1265-1274. [PMID: 33059792 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980020004048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine (i) whether distinct groups of infants under 6 months old (U6M) were identifiable as malnourished based on anthropometric measures and if so to determine the probability of admittance to GOAL Ethiopia's Management of At Risk Mothers and Infants (MAMI) programme based on group membership; (ii) whether there were discrepancies in admission using recognised anthropometric criteria, compared with group membership and (iii) the barriers and potential solutions to identifying malnutrition within U6M. DESIGN Mixed-methods approaches were used, whereby data collected by GOAL Ethiopia underwent: factor mixture modelling, χ2 analysis and logistic regression analysis. Qualitative analysis was performed through coding of key informant interviews. SETTING Data were collected in two refugee camps in Ethiopia. Key informant interviews were conducted remotely with international MAMI programmers and nutrition experts. PARTICIPANTS Participants were 3444 South-Sudanese U6M and eleven key informants experienced in MAMI programming. RESULTS Well-nourished and malnourished groups were identified, with notable discrepancies between group membership and MAMI programme admittance. Despite weight for age z-scores (WAZ) emerging as the most discriminant measure to identify malnutrition, admittance was most strongly associated with mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC). Misconceptions surrounding malnutrition, a dearth of evidence and issues with the current identification protocol emerged as barriers to identifying malnutrition among U6M. CONCLUSIONS Our model suggests that WAZ is the most discriminating anthropometric measure for malnutrition in this population. However, the challenges of using WAZ should be weighed up against the more scalable, but potentially overly sensitive and less accurate use of MUAC among U6M.
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Alam A, Chowdhury M, Dibley MJ, Raynes-Greenow C. How Can We Improve the Consumption of a Nutritionally Balanced Maternal Diet in Rural Bangladesh? The Key Elements of the "Balanced Plate" Intervention. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17176289. [PMID: 32872348 PMCID: PMC7503809 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17176289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Social, cultural, environmental and economic factors closely regulate the selection, allocation and consumption of maternal diets. We developed a nutrition behaviour change intervention to promote a balanced diet in pregnancy through practical demonstration in rural Bangladesh and tested the impact with a cluster randomised controlled trial. This paper presents the findings of the process evaluation and describes the strategies that worked for intervention compliance. We conducted in-depth interviews with pregnant women, women who birthed recently, and their husbands; focus groups with mothers and mothers-in-law; key-informant interviews with community health workers, and observations of home visits. We identified six key areas within the intervention strategy that played a crucial role in achieving the desired adherence. These included practical demonstration of portion sizes; addressing local food perceptions; demystifying animal-source foods; engaging husbands and mothers-in-law; leveraging women’s social networks; and harnessing community health workers’ social role. Practical demonstration, opportunity to participate and convenience of making of the plate with the food available in their kitchen or neighbours’ kitchen were the most commonly mentioned reasons for acceptance of the intervention by the women and their families. The balanced plate intervention helped women through practical demonstration to learn about a balanced meal by highlighting appropriate portion sizes and food diversity. The women needed active involvement of community health workers in mobilising social support to create an enabling environment essential to bring changes in dietary behaviours. Future implementation of the intervention should tailor the strategies to the local context to ensure optimal adherence to the intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraful Alam
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia; (M.J.D.); (C.R.-G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-2-9351-8925
| | - Morseda Chowdhury
- Health, Nutrition and Population Programme, Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee (BRAC), Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh;
| | - Michael J. Dibley
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia; (M.J.D.); (C.R.-G.)
| | - Camille Raynes-Greenow
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia; (M.J.D.); (C.R.-G.)
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Witten C, Claasen N, Kruger HS, Coutsoudis A, Grobler H. Psychosocial barriers and enablers of exclusive breastfeeding: lived experiences of mothers in low-income townships, North West Province, South Africa. Int Breastfeed J 2020; 15:76. [PMID: 32847591 PMCID: PMC7449017 DOI: 10.1186/s13006-020-00320-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite national efforts to promote exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), South Africa’s EBF rate is only 32 %. The aim of this study was to examine the rate of EBF discontinuation and the lived experiences of breastfeeding mothers at postnatal time points 3–14 days, 4–8 weeks, 10–14 weeks and 20–24 weeks. Methods This community-based mixed-methods study collected data within a prospective cohort study on sociodemographics, the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form (BSES-SF) at 6–8 weeks with infant feeding data collected at 4–8, 10–14 and 20–24 weeks from 159 mothers living in low income areas. Six focus groups with 32 mothers with infants aged 6–24 weeks were conducted. Descriptive statistics was used for the quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative data. Results The majority of mothers were unmarried (84.9%), living with family (69.2%) and unemployed (74.2%). Exclusive breastfeeding decreased from 34% at 4–8 weeks to 9.7% at 20–24 weeks. Mixed feeding with infant formula increased from 17.0 to 30.6% and food feeding from 3.1 to 54.2%. While there were no statistically significant associations between EBF and any of the quantitative sociodemographic variables, in the qualitative data, codes associated with barriers were more than enablers. The themes were Mothers’ attributes (wellbeing, experiences and relationships) with the code mother’s stress the strongest barrier, Mother’s knowledge, attitudes and practices of breastfeeding with the code conventional medicines the strongest barrier, Family environment with the code home setting the strongest barrier, Social environment with public spaces and places a barrier and in Baby cues the code baby stomach ailments the barrier. Within these same themes mother’s positive emotions, benefits of breastfeeding, support in the home, access to information and services from health professionals and baby’s health were strong enabling factors. Conclusions Low EBF, high mixed feeding and a high EPDS score were explained by the barriers identified in the qualitative data. The data suggests that mothers from low-income households would be better supported through interventions that address food insecurity; family relationships and those that build confidence in mothers and resilience in confronting difficult and hostile breastfeeding environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantell Witten
- Centre of Excellence for Nutrition, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa. .,Division Health Professions Education, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa.
| | - Nicole Claasen
- Africa Unit for Transdisciplinary Health Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Herculina S Kruger
- Centre of Excellence for Nutrition, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Anna Coutsoudis
- Paediatrics & Child Health, University of Kwazulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Herman Grobler
- Community Psychosocial Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Fuzzy cognitive mapping and soft models of indigenous knowledge on maternal health in Guerrero, Mexico. BMC Med Res Methodol 2020; 20:125. [PMID: 32429974 PMCID: PMC7238543 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-020-00998-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Effective health care requires services that are responsive to local needs and contexts. Achieving this in indigenous settings implies communication between traditional and conventional medicine perspectives. Adequate interaction is especially relevant for maternal health because cultural practices have a notable role during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period. Our work with indigenous communities in the Mexican state of Guerrero used fuzzy cognitive mapping to identify actionable factors for maternal health from the perspective of traditional midwives. Methods We worked with twenty-nine indigenous women and men whose communities recognized them as traditional midwives. A group session for each ethnicity explored risks and protective factors for maternal health among the Me’phaa and Nancue ñomndaa midwives. Participants mapped factors associated with maternal health and weighted the influence of each factor on others. Transitive closure summarized the overall influence of each node with all other factors in the map. Using categories set in discussions with the midwives, the authors condensed the relationships with thematic analysis. The composite map combined categories in the Me’phaa and the Nancue ñomndaa maps. Results Traditional midwives in this setting attend to pregnant women’s physical, mental, and spiritual conditions and the corresponding conditions of their offspring and family. The maps described a complex web of cultural interpretations of disease – “frío” (cold or coldness of the womb), “espanto” (fright), and “coraje” (anger) – abandonment of traditional practices of self-care, women’s mental health, and gender violence as influential risk factors. Protective factors included increased male involvement in maternal health (having a caring, working, and loving husband), receiving support from traditional healers, following protective rituals, and better nutrition. Conclusions The maps offer a visual language to present and to discuss indigenous knowledge and to incorporate participant voices into research and decision making. Factors with higher perceived influence in the eyes of the indigenous groups could be a starting point for additional research. Contrasting these maps with other stakeholder views can inform theories of change and support co-design of culturally appropriate interventions.
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Dattilo AM, Carvalho RS, Feferbaum R, Forsyth S, Zhao A. Hidden Realities of Infant Feeding: Systematic Review of Qualitative Findings from Parents. Behav Sci (Basel) 2020; 10:E83. [PMID: 32349324 PMCID: PMC7287829 DOI: 10.3390/bs10050083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
A growing, global conversation, regarding realities and challenges that parents experience today is ever-present. To understand recent parent's attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions regarding infant feeding, we sought to systematically identify and synthesize original qualitative research findings. Following the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) framework, electronic databases were searched with a priori terms applied to title/abstract fields and limited to studies published in English from 2015 to 2019, inclusive. Study quality assessment was conducted using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist, and thematic analyses performed. Of 73 studies meeting inclusion criteria, four major themes emerged. (1) Breastfeeding is best for an infant; (2) Distinct attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions of mothers that breastfeed, and those that could not or chose not to breastfeed, are evident; (3) Infant feeding behaviors are influenced by the socio-cultural environment of the family, and (4) Parent's expectations of education and support addressing personal infant feeding choices from health care providers are not always met. This systematic review, guided by constructs within behavioral models and theories, provides updated findings to help inform the development of nutrition education curricula and public policy programs. Results can be applied within scale-up nutrition and behavioral education interventions that support parents during infant feeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M. Dattilo
- Nestlé Nutrition, Avenue Nestle, 55 CH-1800 Vevey, Switzerland;
| | | | - Rubens Feferbaum
- Children’s Institute University of São Paulo, Rua Tremembé, São Paulo-SP 01256-010, Brazil;
| | - Stewart Forsyth
- School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD5 1JG, UK;
| | - Ai Zhao
- School of Public Health, Peking University Health Science Center, Xueyuan Road No. 38., Beijing 100191, China;
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Thommesen T, Kismul H, Kaplan I, Safi K, Van den Bergh G. "The midwife helped me ... otherwise I could have died": women's experience of professional midwifery services in rural Afghanistan - a qualitative study in the provinces Kunar and Laghman. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2020; 20:140. [PMID: 32138695 PMCID: PMC7059669 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-020-2818-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Afghanistan has one of the world’s highest maternal mortality ratios, with more than 60% of women having no access to a skilled birth attendant in some areas. The main challenges for childbearing Afghan women are access to skilled birth attendance, emergency obstetric care and reliable contraception. The NGO-based project Advancing Maternal and Newborn Health in Afghanistan has supported education of midwives since 2002, in accordance with the national plan for midwifery education. The aim of this study is to explore women’s experiences of professional midwifery care in four villages in Afghanistan covered by the project, so as to reveal challenges and improve services in rural and conflict-affected areas of the country. Methods An exploratory case-study approach was adopted. Fourteen in-depth interviews and four focus-group discussions were conducted. A total of 39 women participated – 25 who had given birth during the last six months, 11 mothers-in-law and three community midwives in the provinces of Kunar and Laghman. Data generated by the interviews and observations was analysed using thematic content analysis. Findings Many of the women greatly valued the trained midwives’ life-saving experience, skills and care, and the latter were important reasons for choosing to give birth in a clinic. Women further appreciated midwives’ promotion of immediate skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding. However, some women experienced rudeness, discrimination and negligence on the part of the midwives. Moreover, relatives’ disapproval, shame and problems with transport and security were important obstacles to women giving birth in the clinics. Conclusions Local recruitment and professional education of midwives as promoted by Afghan authorities and applied in the project seem successful in promoting utilisation and satisfaction with maternal and neonatal health services in rural Afghanistan. Nevertheless, the quality of the services is still lacking, with some women complaining of disrespectful care. There seems to be a need to focus more on communication issues during the education of midwives. An increased focus on in-service training and factors promoting quality care and respectful communication is necessary and should be prioritised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trude Thommesen
- Centre for International Health, Department for Global Public Health and Primary Health Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Hallgeir Kismul
- Centre for International Health, Department for Global Public Health and Primary Health Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ian Kaplan
- Norwegian Afghanistan Committee, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Khadija Safi
- Norwegian Afghanistan Committee, Kabul, Afghanistan
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Tobing VY, Afiyanti Y, Rachmawati IN. Following the cultural norms as an effort to protect the mother and the baby during the perinatal period: An ethnographic study of women's food choices. ENFERMERIA CLINICA 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.enfcli.2019.04.125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Hashmi AH, Paw MK, Nosten S, Darakamon MC, Gilder ME, Charunwatthana P, Carrara VI, Wickramasinghe K, Angkurawaranon C, Plugge E, McGready R. 'Because the baby asks for it': a mixed-methods study on local perceptions toward nutrition during pregnancy among marginalised migrant women along the Myanmar-Thailand border. Glob Health Action 2018; 11:1473104. [PMID: 29785874 PMCID: PMC5965027 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2018.1473104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Under- and over-nutrition during pregnancy are known risk factors for pregnancy complications and adverse pregnancy and infant outcomes. Understanding perceptions around nutrition in pregnancy can create culturally appropriate interventions for improved health outcomes. Objective: A mixed-methods study was performed to explore local perceptions and practices of diet and physical activity in pregnancy in a marginalised population along the Myanmar–Thailand border. Methods: From April to July 2017, a cross-sectional survey and focus group discussions were conducted with pregnant women reporting to antenatal care; in-depth interviews were conducted with senior midwives at participating organisations along the Myanmar–Thailand border. Results: A total of 388 pregnant women were interviewed at two clinic sites along the Myanmar–Thailand border. A high proportion of women had limited knowledge of and poor dietary practices. Consuming a sweetened drink in the last 24 hours as well as being a non-teenage, multigravida woman was significantly associated with high body mass index (BMI) compared to normal BMI. Qualitative analysis combined focus group discussions (n = 66) and in-depth interviews (n = 4) summarising emergent themes: common foods eaten or avoided and rationale; benefits of nutrition; perceptions of overweight and weight gain during pregnancy; barriers to a healthy diet; and sources of diet information. Conclusions: There is limited awareness about healthy diets and lifestyle in these marginalised, migrant communities along the Myanmar–Thailand border. This study suggests that simple, culturally appropriate messaging should be provided to women and communities with low health literacy to generate awareness about healthy lifestyles and their effects on pregnancy outcomes as an important element of a broader strategy to address maternal nutrition in this population. However, more studies to determine the effectiveness of a broad range of interventions in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) are needed, especially in marginalised migrant populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmar H Hashmi
- a Shoklo Malaria Research Unit, Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit , Mahidol University , Mae Sot , Thailand.,b Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine , Chiang Mai University , Chiang Mai , Thailand
| | - Moo Kho Paw
- a Shoklo Malaria Research Unit, Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit , Mahidol University , Mae Sot , Thailand
| | - Suphak Nosten
- a Shoklo Malaria Research Unit, Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit , Mahidol University , Mae Sot , Thailand
| | - Mu Chae Darakamon
- a Shoklo Malaria Research Unit, Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit , Mahidol University , Mae Sot , Thailand
| | - Mary Ellen Gilder
- a Shoklo Malaria Research Unit, Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit , Mahidol University , Mae Sot , Thailand
| | | | - Verena I Carrara
- a Shoklo Malaria Research Unit, Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit , Mahidol University , Mae Sot , Thailand
| | - Kremlin Wickramasinghe
- d WHO European Office for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Disease , Moscow, Russia
| | - Chaisiri Angkurawaranon
- b Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine , Chiang Mai University , Chiang Mai , Thailand
| | - Emma Plugge
- e Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine , University of Oxford , Oxford , UK
| | - Rose McGready
- a Shoklo Malaria Research Unit, Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit , Mahidol University , Mae Sot , Thailand.,e Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine , University of Oxford , Oxford , UK
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Olagnero G, Barretto L, Wiedemann A, Terraza R, Poy MS, López L. Maternal Understanding Regarding Women Nutrition during Breastfeeding. Health (London) 2018. [DOI: 10.4236/health.2018.1012125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Raman S, Nicholls R, Ritchie J, Razee H, Shafiee S. How natural is the supernatural? Synthesis of the qualitative literature from low and middle income countries on cultural practices and traditional beliefs influencing the perinatal period. Midwifery 2016; 39:87-97. [DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2016.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2016] [Revised: 05/03/2016] [Accepted: 05/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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