A study of 233 dais (77.9%) in the 116 villages in Mahbubnagar Taluk found that all were illiterate. 19 castes were represented in the group. The dai performs vaginal examination to know about the stage of labor and whether or not the baby is in proper position for delivery. The woman is often made to lie on her back while the dai delivers the baby. 70% recommended the squatting position for delivery instead of the lying down position. 94% of the dais used a sickle to cut the umbilical cord. Dais also give advice in raising a child, which is especially useful for those women exeriencing their first birth. 73%-78% dais give advice about diet for the mother and child. 19% of dais reported they gave advice regarding tonics for the mother. Tonics are prepared by commercial companies and sold through shops. Gripe Water is prescribed to mothers by a few dais although it is intended for babies. 48% of the dais were over age 60; 70% were widows. About 55% perform vaginal examination; only one half wash their hands before the examination. The preferred position for the woman to be in before delivery is squatting on the floor, leaning against a wall for support. Dietary advice should be given to new mothers even when they deliver in hospitals.
