Abstract

Doing research in developing countries (so called Third World countries, the South or the developing world) brings with it its own challenges. There are a number of lessons to be learnt from conducting maternity studies in developing countries, encompassing issues around the best ways to plan, organise and conduct such research. Some of these lessons are related to the infrastructure and culture in developing countries, some to the research process itself and others to research outcomes. Aim. The authors of this paper have all conducted research in developing countries in Asia and Africa, and reflect critically on their various experiences. Findings and conclusions. They highlight the problems and potential solutions around translations and translators, difference in expectations between researchers from the North (developed countries) and the South (developing countries), and the need to be sensitive to local cultural and social needs. The paper concludes with some advice and key principles to pave the way for better and fairer maternity care research in the developing world.