Soc Sci Med. 1984 ; 18(6): 497-501.

A traditional midwife practice, Sokoto State, Nigeria.

Ityavyar DA.

The aim of the present paper is to bring to light the role of the Traditional Midwife (TMW) in the provision of maternal and child health care in the rural areas of Sokoto State, Nigeria. Specifically: how do they perform their role? Which of their activities are beneficial and which are harmful for maternal and child welfare? Traditional midwives in Sokoto State sometimes assume the role of a surgeon and cut patients to speed delivery. This traditional form of surgery sometimes leads to a very serious gynecological complication known as Vesico Vaginal Fistulae (VVF). The squatting position in delivery is found to be beneficial. A new system that will solve the problem of VVF and incorporate the beneficial aspects of their practice to the primary health care system has been suggested.