A midwife came only once. It was with my fifth child, Felipe. It was difficult on me, with pain for 30 hours. My husband had a lot of experience because he attended me with all my births, but he didn't know what to do. The midwife saved me.
Men helping their wives give birth is common in many Andean villages.
Government officials explain that this is because of the lack of doctors. But Felipe Flores, Cutipa's husband, says it is simply the tradition. The midwife had to be called only with little Felipe because Petronila was dying. If the man isn't there when the birthing starts, any woman helps. If the pregnant woman is alone, she takes care of herself and washes in the river.