Formative research on peri/neonatal health in the Kebemer health district (Senegal) : final report

The country’s Peri/Neonatal Health Program, supported by the Basic Support for Institutionalizing Child Survival (BASICS II) project, promotes a package of essential measures relating to maternal and newborn care. In 2003, formative research was conducted to understand practices involved in preparing for birth at home and at health care facilities, to identify perceptions and practices concerning newborn care, and to analyze how the signs of illnesses that affect newborns are recognized. An ethnographic qualitative research methodology was used. Data from unstructured and semi-structured interviews, life histories, and focus groups with pregnant women, mothers, health care providers, and other community members were collected in five urban and rural locations in Kébémer health district in Louga Region. Sociocultural obstacles, such as concealment of pregnancy to protect against mystical forces, spiritual attitudes about the anticipation of delivery, beliefs regarding purification of the newborn, and confinement of the mother and newborn for seven days after birth, were found to conflict with some measures recommended by the program. Recommendations include raising consciousness among religious leaders, community leaders, traditional organizations, and traditional practitioners; promoting improved access to health services; and considering enhancements to home monitoring and care.