Medical Pluralism and Cultural Practices Associated with Umbilical Cord-Care in Rural Communities in Zimbabwe

Abstract

This study explores how Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) in rural Zimbabwe care for babies’ umbilical cords, examining cultural practices associated with umbilical cord care. This study relies on a qualitative interpretive approach, guided by symbolic interactionist theory, involving 16 Key Informant Interviews (KIIs). The respondents were de jure (trained) and de facto (untrained) TBAs in Mawadza village in Mutasa District in Manicaland, Zimbabwe. The data from the KIIs were analysed using the framework analysis method. Umbilical cord care is embedded in cultural practices and symbolic meanings. There are various local substances, such as cooking oil, petroleum jelly, local herbs, mothers’ breast milk and vaginal discharge as well as pet (cat and chicken) dung, used for cord care. Many of the substances are harmful and associated with a high risk of child morbidity and mortality in the study area. Only a few TBAs revealed that they used bio-medically recommended substances. The finding suggests that the risks associated with harmful umbilical cord care methods are high in the study communities. This points to the need to strengthen concerted initiatives to improve universal access to modern postnatal healthcare to reduce neonatal mortality..