Senator Neda Imasuen, representing Edo South Senatorial District of Edo State, has emphasised the importance of traditional birth attendants exercising caution during child deliveries to minimise risks to mothers and newborns.
The senator made the remark at a training session for traditional birth attendants from Ovia North East and Ovia South West local government areas of Edo State, held at the NUJ Press Centre in Benin City.
The training was organised at the instance of Senator Imasuen, and was aimed at equipping traditional birth attendants with critical skills for safe delivery practices.
The senator urged participants to promptly refer patients to hospitals in cases of complications in order to save babies and their mothers.
Imasuen disclosed that the training programme would be continuous and called on the Primary Health Care Development Agency to play a significant role in sustaining such initiatives.
He also encouraged participants to pay close attention to the lessons and apply the knowledge in their practice.
Edo State commissioner for health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, underscored the vital role traditional birth attendants play, particularly in rural areas with limited access to medical facilities.
He emphasised the need for them to acquire modern skills to improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes.
Oshiomhole who emphasised the role of traditional birth attendants, said, “They are trusted members of their communities. Women and their families turn to you for support, guidance, and care during one of the most important periods of their lives. This trust makes you not just caregivers but also pillars of maternal health at the grassroots level.
“However, we are all aware that the risks associated with pregnancy and childbirth can sometimes exceed the resources available to TBAs.
“Complications such as severe bleeding, infections, and hypertension require swift and effective referral to more specialized healthcare services. It is, therefore, essential to bridge the gap between traditional and modern healthcare systems.
“This programme will equip you with the skills to provide pregnant women with accurate information about early pregnancy care, nutrition, danger signs, and the importance of regular antenatal visits.
The guest speaker, the director of primary healthcare in Edo State, Dr. Marveson Ima Obasogie, highlighted the importance of government support for traditional birth attendants, recognising them as first responders in many cases.
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