Tradition and modernity in Cameroon: the confrontation between social demand and biomedical logics of health services

Afr J Reprod Health. 2004 Dec;8(3):152-75.

Abstract

This paper examines the cultural acceptability of biomedical obstetrical services and care across an anthropological literature review and a qualitative survey carried out in North Cameroon. The results reveal that cultural acceptability of biomedical services is impaired by a series of requirements such as a too early first prenatal visit; use in common of delivery rooms, wards and obstetrical tools; the absence of traditional healing like massage after delivery; refusal to hand over the placenta and umbilical cord to the family; and hindering the presence of family members during delivery. These evidences support a transition from normative medical system to an efficient and flexible medical system related to the expectations of the population established with its participation. This is commonly called patient-centred care.

MeSH terms

  • Cameroon
  • Culture*
  • Diet
  • Female
  • Health Behavior / ethnology
  • Health Care Surveys
  • Health Services Accessibility
  • Humans
  • Maternal Health Services / standards*
  • Obstetrics / standards*
  • Parturition / ethnology
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care / ethnology*
  • Patient-Centered Care
  • Pregnancy
  • Sexual Behavior / ethnology