Exploring Prenatal Services Utilization Among Indigenous Women: A Symbolic Interaction Study of Aetas Decision Making - Padilla, Mary Joy B. (Magalang, Pampanga : Pampanga State Agricultural University, 2020)
This qualitative research intended to determine the Aeta mothers' social interaction relevant to the decision to obtain prenatal care services. Specifically, through the lens of Symbolic interactionism, this study identified the aeta mothers meaning of the utilization of the services as shaped by social interactions. As part of the research design, the hermeneutic phenomenological approach was applied. Through purposive sampling and theoretical saturation, for aeta mothers participated in the individual face-to-face interviews. In conducting the interviews, semi-structured interview guide, recording device via cell phone and field notes were utilized. For data analysis, thematic analysis was used. The results captured the relevance of the social interactions with family members, health staff, and fellow pregnant aetas on the use of prenatal care services. Interaction with these people shaped the aeta mothers meanings on the utilization of the services. Thus, the meanings established among aeta mothers were utilization of prenatal care as a means for healthy pregnancy as a tool to monitor both the mother and the baby's health, and as life-saving for a mother giving life. Therefore, in order to increase the use of prenatal care services and prevent maternal and neonatal death among women particularly indigenous women, the researcher recommends the participation of family members specifically husbands to be involved in programs such as maternal and infant health education.