Traditional Midwifery From Past to Present: Amasya-Tokat, Turkey Sample

Abstract

Objective: This research aims to determine the views oftraditional midwives in Amasya and Tokat regions about their past midwifery experiences. Material and Methods: The research is a qualitative one and a content analysis was conducted in line with the aims. Adigitization concern was not aroused from the qualitative data obtained.The research was carried out in the central villages of Amasya andTurhal district villages of Tokat province. The data were collected byusing in-depth interviews with 7 women who had been midwives in thepast. The interviews were conducted by a single researcher. Results:Traditional midwives gave information about their practices about theprofession, family planning, pregnancy, birth and postpartum period.It contains information about how they started their profession, wherethey learned midwifery and why they did this profession. They said thatthey learned by themselves and even had this experience at their firstbirth. They mostly made explanations about birth. Statements are common for the birthing position, although they mention different practicesregarding the practices they perform during childbirth. They stated thatthey gave birth in sitting, squatting and semi-sitting positions. One ofthe important data is that only the traditional midwife who went toschool until the 3rd grade at that time kept a record book. Conclusion:It is seen that women expressed that they do this job to help women.Traditional midwives, respecting the physiological natural process oflabor, express that they give birth in upright positions such as squatting, especially during delivery. However, unlike current midwiferyservices, traditional midwives seem to focus only on childbirth.