Perceptions of Hausa and Fulani Tribes on Traditional Birth Attendants in Zaria Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria

Abstract

Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) are found in most communities in the world. Although their nature and functions varied considerably. Their practices aimed at providing medical related services for the maintenance of good maternal health, particularly through ensuring good delivery. The study aimed to assess the perceptions of women on TBAs in Zaria Kaduna State, Nigeria. The State is part of Hausa and Fulani land where ethno medicine is recognised and highly practiced. Hausa and Fulani tribes of Zaria were selected for the study. A total of 200 women were randomly selected and interviewed. The information provided were recorded on structured questionnaires. The results showed that TBAs have made great impact in such communities. Low risk perception regarding their personal susceptibility to pregnancy and labour complications was one of the main reasons why most old women with many children delivered at home and utilized TBAs. Respondents showed that TBAs are available at any time, easily accessed, always reliable for pregnant patient women to attend at any moment, caring of women in labour or outside labour. Also they rendered their services to maximum capacity. Respondents in the study area indicated their confidence and beliefs towards utilizing TBAs services. In conclusion pregnant women’s positive attitude towards TBAs was one of the main reasons why most of them preferred the services provided by TBAs. There is no doubt that such TBAs will continue to play an important role in health care provision in the study area. Therefore, comprehensive training of TBAs to act as primary health care workers in community should be considered and implemented.