Acehnese Cultural Leaders’ Perspective on Anemia in Pregnant Women: A Qualitative Study

Darmawati Darmawati,Hajjul Kamil,Teuku Tahlil,Tongku N Siregar

doi:10.1155/2020/8710254

Abstract

Introduction. Anemia during pregnancy is one of the commonest issues in pregnancy. Cultural belief is among the contributing factors to this problem. This study aims to explore the cultural leaders’ perception on Acehnese culture regarding anemia in pregnancy. Methods. The qualitative study was conducted using three in-depth interviews and a focus group discussion with Acehnese cultural leaders. Data analysis was conducted by the inductive content analysis method. Results. Four themes emerged from interviews and discussion: (1) cultural beliefs about anemia; (2) locally resourced food; (3) husband participation in preventing anemia during pregnancy; (4) do’s and don’ts. Conclusion. Our findings provide insight into how cultural leaders’ perceptions of anemia are in pregnancy and how they are integrated strongly into Acehnese people’s lives. These findings would assist in developing culturally adapted strategic policy to prevent anemia during pregnancy.

Highlights

Anemia during pregnancy is one of the commonest issues in pregnancy
Study Design and Participants. is qualitative study involved data collection using focus group discussion (FGD) approach and in-depth interviews (IDIs) conducted to explore the cultural leaders’ perceptions about Acehnese culture regarding anemia in pregnant women in Aceh Besar District, Aceh, Indonesia. e participants recruitment was carried out using a convenience sampling technique to participate in in-depth interviews; there were 3 cultural leaders who participated in this process
In-depth interviews were conducted using open-ended questions. ese interview tools were translated into the Acehnese language. e main themes discussed include cultural beliefs about anemia, the role of cultural leaders, and some poetry or narit maja that guide the Acehnese women in their pregnancy, especially to prevent anemia

Summary

Introduction

Anemia during pregnancy is one of the commonest issues in pregnancy. Cultural belief is among the contributing factors to this problem. is study aims to explore the cultural leaders’ perception on Acehnese culture regarding anemia in pregnancy. E qualitative study was conducted using three in-depth interviews and a focus group discussion with Acehnese cultural leaders. Our findings provide insight into how cultural leaders’ perceptions of anemia are in pregnancy and how they are integrated strongly into Acehnese people’s lives. Pregnancy is a critical phase in a woman’s life and has a great impact on their daily lives [1]. Sometimes, this phase can cause fear of death if pregnancy is not well prepared, so various complications will arise during pregnancy [2]. It is estimated that more than 38.2% pregnant women suffered with anemia around the world, and this condition is the main cause of maternal death [5]. Anemia can cause premature birth and low birth weight, and fetal weight does not correspond to the gestational age [2]

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion