A community-based maternal child health program produces changes in the women health volunteers in Myanmar

Abstract

Purpose
This study describes the changes in the Women's Health Voluntary Group (WVG) members developed by participatory approach as a direct result of their participation in the WVG program in rural areas of Myanmar.
Method
A total of 74 people, including: 22 WVG members, eight people directly involved in the program, 20 WVG's family members, and 25 villagers, were interviewed in using a semi-structured interview format at intervention villages of the WVG program. Data was translated in Japanese and analyzed qualitatively and inductively.
Result
The analysis of WVG changes yielded 10 categories and 28 subcategories. WVG members developed from a stage of 'ignorance' to a stage of 'extension of consciousness derived from acquiring knowledge'. There was a core of 'behavior changes triggered by acquiring knowledge that could be used in their daily life' participation in the WVG program. The process of change was instigated by functions that could be applied within the village community: 'family support', 'handling of money', and 'the presence of things'. These functions had direct effects on the process of change. The changes were attained due to: 'the women's motivation to participate' and 'thought based on their religion and culture'. Furthermore, 'the sense of gratitude projected by the local community' and 'the collaboration with the basic health staff', in the form of greater cooperation, appeared as secondary benefits of the program.
Conclusion
The program resulted in changes in the WVG members themselves. This occurred in terms of an extension of consciousness derived from acquiring knowledge together with behavioral changes caused by the acquiring of knowledge applicable to daily life. These results occurred, as a direct result of participation in the WVG program.