This archive report was first published on 15 August 2019.
Published on August 15, 2019, a report by the Nation highlighted a worrying trend in Lamu County, Kenya, where traditional birth attendants (TBAs) have been administering prenatal massages to pregnant women, resulting in a significant increase in stillbirths.
According to Dr. Salim Zubeir, Medical Superintendent at Faza Sub-County Hospital, out of 20 women who deliver at the facility each month, seven require emergency Caesarean sections due to complications arising from the belly massages.
Dr. Zubeir further stated that at least two out of five babies die from the effects of the tummy massages each month in Faza and the surrounding villages.
He urged the TBAs to refrain from massaging pregnant women and instead accompany them to the hospital, where they can receive safe delivery.
Resident Mrs. Zulekha Ali defended the traditional birth attendants, stating that they are easily available and offer cheap services. She claimed that she has never experienced complications during her pregnancies, which have been handled by TBAs.
However, Lamu Traditional Birth Attendants Spokesperson Shumi Mkunga refuted claims that new-born babies in the region are dying due to prenatal massages. She stated that most midwives have undergone special training by doctors and have been conducting their roles as per the lessons they received.
