Maternal Health: Senator Neda Imaseun Charges Traditional Birth Attendants On Minimising Risks During Delivery

By Reporter

Senator Neda Imasuen, representing Edo South Senatorial District, has emphasized the importance of traditional birth attendants exercising caution during deliveries to minimize risks to mothers and newborns.

The senator made this statement at a three-day training session for traditional birth attendants from Ovia North East and Ovia South West Local Government Areas of Edo State, held at the NUJ Press Centre in Benin City.

The training, organized at the instance of Senator Imasuen, representing Edo South Senatorial District, is designed to equip traditional birth attendants with critical skills for safe delivery practices, with the theme – “Training of Traditional Birth Attendants in Early Pregnancy Care and the Referral Mechanisms.”

The Participants were urged to promptly refer patients to hospitals in cases of complications in order to save the life of the baby and the mother.

Imasuen noted that the training program would be continuous and called on the Primary Health Care Development Agency to play a significant role in sustaining such initiatives.

He encouraged participants to pay close attention to the lessons and apply the knowledge in their practice.

Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, Edo State Commissioner for Health underscored the vital role traditional birth attendants play, particularly in rural areas with limited access to medical facilities.

He emphasized the need for them to acquire modern skills to improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes.

Oshiomhole who emphasised the role of Traditional birth attendants, said: “they are trusted members of their communities.

“Women and their families turn to you for support, guidance, and care during one of the most important periods of their lives.

“This trust makes you not just caregivers but also pillars of maternal health at the grassroots level.

“However, we are all aware that the risks associated with pregnancy and childbirth can sometimes exceed the resources available to TBAs.

“Complications such as severe bleeding, infections, and hypertension require swift and effective referral to more specialized healthcare services.

“It is, therefore, essential to bridge the gap between traditional and modern healthcare systems.

“This program will equip you with the skills to provide pregnant women with accurate information about early pregnancy care, nutrition, danger signs, and the importance of regular antenatal visits.

“Promoting Early Detection by recognizing early warning signs of complications, TBAs can play a vital role in preventing emergencies and improving outcomes for mothers and babies.

“Also Strengthening Referral Mechanisms, Timely referrals save lives. This training will enhance your understanding of referral protocols and how to work seamlessly with health facilities to ensure pregnant women receive the care they need.” Oshiomhole stated.

Guest speaker Dr. Marveson Ima Obasogie, Director of Primary Health Care in Edo State, highlighted the importance of government support for traditional birth attendants, and recognizes them as first responders in many cases.

The training program, themed ‘Role of Traditional Birth Attendants in Early Pregnancy Care and Referral Mechanisms’, focused on enhancing the participants’ understanding of early pregnancy care and the importance of timely hospital referrals.

The Senator Neda Imasuen initiative is expected to improve maternal health outcomes in rural communities across Edo Edo South Senatorial District.

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