Implementing a culturally appropriate birthing policy: Ethnographic analysis of the experiences of skilled birth attendants in Peru

Abstract

Policies about skilled birth attendants (SBA) need to account for cultural acceptability of care rendered by SBAs. Few studies have assessed these policies from the perspective of SBAs. I identify challenges and analyze the experiences of SBAs implementing a culturally appropriate birth care policy in Peru. I collected data during 15 months of ethnographic research: conducting semi-structured interviews and informal conversations with 5 SBAs in 2 villages and with health officials. I compared interview results with my observations of consultations and of labor and delivery. Weak institutional support, lack of training, negative perceptions of the policy inhibited implementation, as did detrimental effects on future personal and professional opportunities. SBAs in Peru face many challenges when trying to establish intercultural birth care. My recommendations include provision of focused training, promoting a more diverse workforce, and increasing community engagement.Journal of Public Health Policy advance online publication, 19 May 2016; doi:10.1057/jphp.2016.19.