Maternal care practices among the ultra poor households in rural Bangladesh: a qualitative exploratory study
2011

Maternal Care Practices Among Ultra Poor Households in Rural Bangladesh

Sample size: 20 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Choudhury Nuzhat, Ahmed Syed M

Primary Institution: BRAC Centre, Bangladesh

Hypothesis

What are the maternal care practices among women in ultra poor households in rural Bangladesh?

Conclusion

Cultural beliefs and norms significantly influence maternal care practices among ultra poor households, often overriding the benefits of economic support.

Supporting Evidence

  • Women often viewed pregnancy as normal and did not seek antenatal care unless complications arose.
  • Financial constraints and traditional beliefs delayed care-seeking during complications.
  • Most deliveries occurred at home with traditional birth attendants present.

Takeaway

This study shows that women in very poor households in Bangladesh often don't get the medical help they need during pregnancy because of cultural beliefs and lack of money.

Methodology

Qualitative interviews were conducted with women in ultra poor households to explore their maternal care practices during pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to social desirability in self-reported data.

Limitations

Findings are based on self-reported practices, which may differ from actual practices.

Participant Demographics

Majority of respondents were in their twenties, mostly Muslim, living in poor hygienic conditions.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2393-11-15

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