The use of traditional medicine during pregnancy and childbirth is common among the
Black traditional cultures of Southern Africa. Any pregnancy–related problem is believed to
be somehow associated with dikgaba, a phenomenon that only indigenous healers are
capable of managing. It is therefore crucial that the midwives and other health care
professionals acknowledge the relevance of traditional medicine when dealing with clients
who belong to black traditional societies of South Africa.
The objective of the study was to explore and describe health practices related to dikgaba
in pregnancy as well as to formulate recommendations for culturally congruent and safe
midwifery care.
In–depth individual interviews were conducted to collect data from ten participants known
to be experts in kgaba remedies used during pregnancy and birth. These were traditional
healers, traditional birth attendants and those with keen interest in traditional and cultural
issues. Interviews were conducted in the participants’ homes for privacy, confidentiality
and convenience.
A naturalistic and phenomenological approach using contextual exploratory and
descriptive research design was used to reach the aim of the study from the perspectives
of Batswana in the North West province.
The study revealed that an understanding of dikgaba and the related healing practices in
pregnancy and childbirth is common. This clearly motivates for better understanding of
traditional medicine by the midwives as it is relevant and justifiable.
Recommendations are made to inform the transformation of the health–care delivery
system, with specific reference to midwifery education, research and practice, in order to
make health care acceptable and accessible to all. / Thesis (M.Cur.)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2011.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:NWUBOLOKA1/oai:dspace.nwu.ac.za:10394/4896 |
| Date | January 2010 |
| Creators | Kgoadigoadi, Swinky Cornelia |
| Publisher | North-West University |
| Source Sets | North-West University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
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