Longitudinal Trends in Childbirth Practices in Ethiopia

Objectives This study examines the influence of women’s birth practices on their daughters’ location of childbirth in Ethiopia, investigating the importance of intergenerational patterns of care on contemporary birth practices. Methods A qualitative survey of women aged 60 and over in three cities in Ethiopia. Results Nearly all first generation women gave birth at home, but the majority of their daughters give birth in facilities. Perceptions of childbirth practices among both women and their daughters have shifted towards facility births, despite the prevalence of home birth in the previous generation. Conclusions Birth culture has experienced a profound shift in Ethiopia within one generation, especially in urban areas, where health facilities are more easily accessible. Older generations of women have positive attitudes towards facility birth, and can help influence their daughters to give birth with medical assistance. This aligns with both national and global maternal health policies which promote safe motherhood through facility birth.