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Mothers can deliver at fixed clinics or Midwife Obstetric units, which are run by midwives in the community for primary health care patients. If complications arise during birth then they will be transferred to a hospital up the line. Mothers who are HIV positive can join the Prevention of Mother To Child Transmission service. Expectant mothers are encouraged to bring a birthing partner (husband/friend/relative), known in the service as a "doula" to assist with the birthing process. It has been found that mothers accompanied by a doula need less pain medication because they feel supported. Mothers can request a birthing position (e.g. squatting) that makes them feel the most comfortable. The health facility gives all mothers a Road to Health Chart (RTHC) when the baby is born. This card is kept at home and must be given to the sister on follow-up visits to the clinic. The card is an on-going record of the child's health from birth to five years of age. |
