Perceptions, knowledge, and practices of breastfeeding in indigenous regions of Mexico during Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

Objective. To explore the perceptions, knowledge, and practices of breastfeeding in the context of Covid-19 of pregnant and postpartum women, midwives, and health providers in an indigenous region of Chiapas, Mexico. Materials and methods. Qualitative thematic analysis study involving semi-structured interviews (n = 46) with pregnant women (n = 19), postpartum women (n = 6), health providers (n = 10, i.e., doctors/nurses), and midwives (n = 11). Results. Among mothers, 47% (n = 11) did not know if Covid-19 is transmitted through breastfeeding. They mentioned that they would stay away from their newborns if infected. Health providers and midwives have not received education or any supporting material on the value of breastfeeding during Covid-19 infection. Conclusion. Breastfeeding mothers’ promotion and counseling remain poor in indigenous communities and have worsened during the Covid-19 pandemic. Breastfeeding training among health providers and midwives should be provided or strengthened even more in emergency situations.

Percepciones de salud materno-infantil y efectos de incentivos económicos en los Altos de Chiapas, México: Análisis Post-Prospera

“…En este contexto, es esencial analizar cómo operó el incentivo económico en la apropiación de la estrategia de corresponsabilidad del Prospera. Aunque el incentivo 14,15,28,29,30,32 buscaba generar cambios en las acciones de las beneficiarias de Prospera, los testimonios sugieren que la motivación para cumplir con los requisitos del programa estaba vinculada principalmente al incentivo económico. La finalización de este programa resultó en una disminución en la asistencia de las mujeres a las unidades médicas, según indican los testimonios del personal de salud.…”