Adherence to traditional Indian customs surrounding birth
Chalmers, B.; Meyer, D.
South African Medical Journal 83(3): 204-206
1993
ISSN/ISBN: 0256-9574 PMID: 8511690 Document Number: 413585
Customs traditionally followed by Indian women during pregnancy, birth and early parenthood have been documented. An exploratory investigation of the extent to which some of these traditional beliefs, customs and practices are currently adhered to was undertaken by interviewing Indian mothers living in Johannesburg and its environs about 3 months after delivery. Results indicate that while some traditional customs are still adhered to by most Indian women, others are not so strictly followed. Since most customs relate to activities conducted at home rather than while in hospital for delivery, medical care would not be expected to influence their practice.