Traditional practices of women from India: pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care

Abstract

This article describes maternal and child care practices among women from India. As in all cultures, certain beliefs exist surrounding what facilitates a good pregnancy and its outcome, as well as negative sanctions. These practices continue to influence many immigrant women to whom western practices are either unknown or unacceptable. An understanding of the traditional belief system of such women can case their adaptation into the Canadian and U.S. health care systems.

PIP: An understanding of the traditional practices associated with pregnancy and delivery in immigrant women's countries of origin is essential for US and Canadian health care professionals who attend these women. This article, intended for North American nurses and other health workers, reviews pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care practices in India. Although most Indian women believe they have little or no control over pregnancy and its outcomes, certain beliefs, customs, and taboos surround pregnancy and the perinatal period. Among the practices discussed in this article are consumption of "hot" versus "cold" foods during pregnancy, reduced food consumption during pregnancy, son preference, uses of herbal medicines, home delivery by a traditional birth attendant, exclusion of men from most aspects of childbirth, the role of extended family, confinement after delivery, delayed onset of breast feeding, and rituals aimed at warding off the "evil eye." An appreciation of these customs helps ensure the provision of appropriate care that facilitates integration of traditional and Western practices.