Traditional Maternal Healthcare Practices in Juncture: An Exploratory Study Among the Oraon Community of Jalpaiguri District, West Bengal

Maternal health constitutes a pivotal aspect of the healthcare system, bearing immense significance for the future of a nation. But in lower-middle income countries like India, maternal health has always been a matter of concern, especially among the tribal population. It has been observed that in numerous tribal regions, the effective utilization of maternal health services remains elusive, due to different determinants at both community and individual levels. This study aims to explore the maternal healthcare provisions among the Oraon community of Jalpaiguri district, West Bengal, to provide a clear representation of the present scenario. The findings of this study disclose an increasing inclination towards modern healthcare facilities, coexisting with the age-old traditional healthcare practices. The choice of antenatal care providers and delivery place is considered as two essential health inputs to portray the community perspectives. Sociocultural and religious beliefs within the community also emerged as key influencers in shaping maternal healthcare practices.