Bridging Traditions and Modernity for Maternal and Newborn Health:               A Qualitative Study of Community Health Workers’ Perspectives on Traditional Postpartum Observation, Mae Hong Son, Thailand

Pattaratorn  Chantarawakin; Pitchaporn  Satarak; Nutnicha  Kumpala; Prissana  Nuanbooruang; Anchalee  Kongai; Thaworn  Lorga; Panpimol  Sukwong; Onsiri  Kasamut

Authors

Pattaratorn Chantarawakin Faculty of Nursing, Northern College, Tak, Thailand
Pitchaporn Satarak Boromarajonani College of Nursing, Chonburi, Thailand
Nutnicha Kumpala Faculty of Nursing, Northern College, Tak, Thailand
Prissana Nuanbooruang Faculty of Nursing, Northern College, Tak, Thailand
Anchalee Kongai Faculty of Nursing, Northern College, Tak, Thailand
Thaworn Lorga Faculty of Nursing, Northern College, Tak, Thailand
Panpimol Sukwong Faculty of Nursing, Chaiyaphum Rajabhat University, Chaiyaphum, Thailand
Onsiri Kasamut Faculty of Nursing, Chiang Mai Rajabhat University, Mae Hong Son, Thailand

Keywords:

Postpartum care, Traditional practices, Modern healthcare, Community Health practitioners, Village health volunteers

Abstract

Background: Postpartum care is deeply embedded in cultural traditions, particularly in multi-ethnic communities like Mae Hong Son, Thailand, where traditional practices coexist with modern healthcare. Understanding the perspectives of community health practitioners (CHPs) and village health volunteers (VHVs) is crucial for integrating traditional and modern postpartum care to improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes.

Objective: This study aimed to explore traditional postpartum observation practices from the perspectives of CHPs and VHVs in Mae Hong Son.

Methods: A qualitative study used three focus group discussions with 15 VHVs and semi-structured in-depth interviews with six CHPs. The data were analyzed thematically, with findings organized into key themes and sub-themes.

Results: Seven major themes emerged: (1) Acceptability of traditional and modern postpartum practices, showing generational and professional differences in attitudes; (2) Compatibility between traditional and modern postpartum care, identifying areas of alignment, complementarity, and conflict; (3) Towards common goals of safety, success, and satisfaction; (4) Phases of traditional postpartum observation, detailing rigour, relaxation, re-introduction, and resumption; (5) Benefits and risks of traditional and modern postpartum care, evaluated through traditions, personal experiences, and scientific evidence; (6) Family influence and support, highlighting the pivotal roles of family members, focusing on culturally sensitive approaches to align the two systems, and (7) Strategies for traditional and modern integration.

Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of culturally sensitive, family-centered, and hybrid postpartum care models that integrate beneficial traditional practices with modern evidence-based interventions. Future research should evaluate the long-term impacts of integrated postpartum care on maternal and neonatal health while exploring family dynamics and generational shifts in care practices.

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