This article seeks to enhance our understanding of childbirth-related practices among rural women in Jharkhand and the obstacles they face in seeking appropriate care. It documents women's experience of childbirth from their own perspectives, and the perceptions of providers regarding birthing practices. It also describes women's perceptions of complications experienced during childbirth and the actions taken to address these problems, and explores the obstacles women face in accessing appropriate and timely care. The findings are intended to bridge the gap between policy and programme makers (and implementers) on the one hand, and poor, rural women - for whom the services are provided - on the other.
