Changing myths on pregnancy & after delivery among the Turkana
The Turkanas are one of the nomadic communities in Kenya well known for pastoralism. Over the years, they have moved from place to place in search of pasture. This movement has prevented pregnant women from seeking important health care services leading to many problems during pregnancy, delivery and after delivery. Sadly, this has resulted in a high number of miscarriages, neonatal death and maternal death. Despite of this, they still believe that preparation for childbirth was a bad omen for the unborn child and breast milk was just another option of feeding neonates; second to cow and goat milk. All this happened because they lacked proper information on Ante-Natal Care (ANC), immunization and nutrition for mother and child. But hope is not lost. The situation has started changing following the training of Community Health Workers (CHWs) through mobile learning (mLearning). Meet Mary Nauko, a CHW in Waso Community Unit (CU) who is a beneficiary of mLearning.
“Through mLearning, I have acquired knowledge on importance of ANC, hospital deliveries and immunization.I have used this knowledge to pass on health education to mothers, convincing them to take their children for immunization. I also follow up on pregnant mothers and advise them on importance of ANC.” Mary adds that it has been difficult convincing mothers to reduce movement during pregnancy and to take their children for immunization,especially because of the long distances between their “manyattas” (homes) and the health facilities. She therefore advises them to move near the health facility when their due date approaches.
“Together with fellow CHWs, we are trying our best to advise mothers on how to carry themselves during pregnancy and after delivery. We also introduce them to alternative foods other than meat, blood and milk which they are used to. I am glad that mothers have started taking vegetables so as to have a balanced diet. This has led to a significant increase in the numbers on ANC visits, immunizations and reduced malnutrition cases,” states Mary gladly.