The Perinatal Association of the Philippines (PAP) - Ilocos Chapter is composed of members from Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur and Abra. Together with the obstetricians and pediatricians, the midwives play a major role in obstetrical practice and early neonatal care. Based on the 2003 and 2004 statistics gathered from their Provincial Health Offices, 76 percent of pregnant patients delivered at home, with the midwives attending to as much as 63-65 percent of the deliveries. Continuing patronage of the midwives is considered one of the most important issues given priority by the chapter. In order to get an overview of the government midwives' practice of perinatal care, a survey questionnaire was devised. The specific objectives are: 1. To determine current knowledge, skills, attitude and practices in antenatal care, intrapartum care, resuscitation and newborn care, and postpartum care. 2. To identify their needs and problems in perinatal health care in the area. 3. To make recommendations and to design programs/ projects to improve perinatal care. The questionnaire was distributed to as many government midwives in the three provinces. Out of 399, 251 (63 percent) participated in the study, which was conducted from June to December 2004. The data gathered were tabulated and summarized using frequency counts, percentages and ranking. The government midwives generally observe proper perinatal care. However, there are some critical areas that need to be improved to ensure better outcomes - tetanus immunization of the pregnant patient, vitamin K and eye ointment care of the newborn are some examples. Turning the baby upside down at birth and the use of abdominal binders are just some of the old practices still being handed down from one generation to another. Major problem areas include knowledge gaps by both midwives and patients as well as lack of supplies / medicines / facilities. The former can be addressed through education and training while the latter will entail self-reliance, adequate preparation and prompt referral to hospitals better equipped to handle difficult cases. The chapter is still in its infancy stage and with the baseline data that were gathered, more focused assessment of needs will be undertaken - with the end in view of assuring the proper health of both mother and child.

In: 14th PAP Convention Research Forum (September 26, 2005)