Perceptions of student accoucheurs regarding gender inequality in midwifery training at Free State maternal healthcare institutions

Abstract

This study explored and described the perceptions of student accoucheurs regarding gender inequality in midwifery training at the Free State maternal healthcare institutions.Method: An explorative and descriptive qualitative research design was undertaken. There were 40 student accoucheurs that formed 10 focus group discussions. Each focus group discussion had four participants. Tesch's eight-steps of data analysis was used to analyse data.Results: Three major themes emerged during data analysis: meeting the training requirements in midwifery, women's autonomy in a choice of healthcare provider versus student accoucheurs' autonomy to be trained in midwifery and staff establishment to render maternal healthcare. Conclusion:The participants perceived prejudice, rejection and resistance by women in maternity units as a contributing factor to gender inequality, which has a negative impact on their training in midwifery. The study recommends that health directorates, nurse managers and training institutions should consider revising maternal healthcare policies regarding the recruitment and placement of willing accoucheurs in maternity units in order to address gender inequality.

Validity and reliability of the gender equity scale in nursing education

“…It was reported that male students in the midwifery training course experienced gender discrimination during clinical practice. Such gender inequity in nursing education could be overcome through policy revision or curriculum development (Madlala et al, 2021). To improve gender equity in nursing education, mentoring programs for various genders are needed, and the faculty's role is important (Petges & Sabio, 2020).…”