The Importance of Giving Birth with Healthcare Professionals Instead of Traditional Birth Attendants

YPCII.org – Childbirth is one of the most critical moments in the life of a mother and baby. A safe delivery process not only determines survival during labor, but also greatly affects the long-term health of both mother and child. In many parts of Indonesia, especially in rural and remote areas, some families still rely on traditional birth attendants or local shamans to assist childbirth without professional medical support. This situation remains a serious concern because it can significantly increase the risk of complications.

The Indonesian government, together with healthcare organizations and community programs, continues to encourage mothers to give birth at healthcare facilities under the supervision of trained professionals such as midwives, nurses, and doctors. This effort is essential to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates, which remain a challenge in several regions.

The Risks of Childbirth Without Medical Assistance

Labor and delivery do not always proceed normally. Complications can occur unexpectedly, even during pregnancies that appear healthy from the beginning. Some of the most common emergencies include severe bleeding, high blood pressure, seizures, infections, prolonged labor, and breathing difficulties in newborns.

Healthcare professionals are trained to detect warning signs early and provide immediate medical treatment when complications arise. In healthcare facilities, mothers have access to proper medical equipment, medicines, oxygen support, and emergency referral services if advanced procedures such as cesarean sections become necessary.

On the other hand, traditional birth attendants often work without adequate medical equipment or standardized healthcare procedures. In emergency situations, delays in receiving proper treatment can place both mother and baby at serious risk. Poor hygiene practices during home deliveries may also increase the possibility of infection.

The Important Role of Midwives and Medical Workers

Midwives and healthcare workers do much more than simply assist childbirth. They monitor the condition of both mother and baby before, during, and after delivery to ensure their safety.

Regular prenatal checkups help medical professionals monitor fetal growth, the baby’s position, the mother’s blood pressure, and other possible complications during pregnancy. These examinations are important for identifying risks early and preparing proper medical care when needed.

During labor, healthcare workers can help mothers go through childbirth more safely and comfortably. After birth, newborns are immediately examined to ensure stable breathing, heart rate, body temperature, and overall health. Medical facilities also support essential services such as early breastfeeding initiation, immunization, and postnatal care.

Postpartum monitoring is equally important. Many mothers experience excessive bleeding, infections, or other health complications after giving birth without realizing the symptoms. With professional supervision, these risks can be reduced through follow-up examinations and family health education.

Traditional Beliefs and Community Challenges

In some communities, families still prefer traditional birth attendants because of cultural traditions, emotional trust, or long-standing beliefs passed down through generations. Some people also believe that giving birth at home feels more comfortable and affordable than visiting healthcare facilities.

However, comfort should never come at the expense of safety. Cultural traditions can still be respected while prioritizing professional medical care. In several regions, collaborative approaches have been introduced by involving community leaders and traditional birth attendants in encouraging pregnant women to deliver at healthcare facilities.

Public health education plays an essential role in gradually changing perceptions within communities. Information about childbirth risks and maternal health should be delivered in simple and understandable ways so families can make informed decisions.

Family Support is Essential

Decisions regarding childbirth are often influenced by family members, especially husbands and parents. For this reason, education should target not only pregnant women but also the entire family.

Husbands play a particularly important role in ensuring that mothers receive proper support, including transportation to healthcare facilities, financial preparation, and emotional encouragement throughout pregnancy and childbirth. Strong family communication can help reduce delays during emergency situations.

Families are also encouraged to prepare a birth plan early in pregnancy. This includes selecting a healthcare facility, arranging transportation, preparing emergency contact numbers, and identifying possible blood donors if needed.

Improving Access to Healthcare Services

The Indonesian government continues to improve access to maternal and child healthcare services through community health centers, village midwife programs, integrated health posts, and the National Health Insurance program. These efforts aim to ensure that mothers can access safe delivery services regardless of economic or geographic barriers.

In some areas, village ambulance services and maternity waiting homes have also been introduced to support pregnant women who live far from hospitals or clinics. Such initiatives are important steps toward reducing maternal and infant mortality rates nationwide.

Nonprofit organizations, healthcare institutions, and local communities also play a major role in educating and assisting families about the importance of safe childbirth. Collaboration among all stakeholders is necessary to prevent maternal deaths caused by delayed medical treatment during labor.

Safe Childbirth for a Healthier Future

A child’s health begins during pregnancy and childbirth. Babies born with proper medical assistance have a greater chance of growing up healthy and receiving immediate care if health problems occur at birth.

Giving birth at healthcare facilities also ensures that newborns receive essential early services such as breastfeeding support, medical examinations, immunization, and birth registration. These services are important for supporting healthy growth and development.

Promoting awareness about the importance of childbirth with healthcare professionals does not mean abandoning local culture or traditions. Instead, it means placing the safety of mothers and babies as the highest priority. Through education, improved healthcare access, and strong family support, more mothers can experience safe and healthy deliveries.

Giving birth with trained healthcare professionals is an important investment in the future of families and the next generation.