A comadrona is a Mayan midwife. They are the most common type of birth attendants in rural communities. They learn through apprenticeship and experience and recognize several traditions to help bring new life into the world.
One of the things that I was able to realize is that all of the herbs and techniques aren’t simply a tool to aid in the process of delivering a child, but that they are an actual demonstration of the history of these people and the years and years of shared knowledge that has come together in this exact moment. It is a fascinating realization when considering the cultural aspects of comadronas.
It was humbling to hear, however, that one of the most important things a comadrona can learn is when it is time to go to the hospital. Knowing one’s own limits is something we should all strive for and I am happy to know that people so involved in the lives of the next generation appreciate its importance.
Nick in Guatemala 