Assessment of cultural beliefs and practices during the postnatal period in a coastal town of South India - A mixed method research study

Abstract

BACKGROUND The postpartum period continues to be an important part

of the tradition and culture among Indian women. But frequently the

health of the postnatal women is neglected. So, the present study aimed

to explore the beliefs and practices in the postpartum period regarding

diet, rest, hygiene and confinement and assess association between

cultural practices and socio demographic characteristics.

METHODS A combined quantitative and qualitative study was carried out

in the rural areas of Udupi district in Karnataka. Participants for the

quantitative study were 110 women who had given birth in the past three

months. This was followed by one focus group discussion (FGD) among

twelve consenting mothers at one of the rural health centers.

RESULTS Among the 110 women, over 80% of women had increased their

diet intake postpartum. Vegetables such as brinjal and fruits like papaya were avoided by 65.5% and 73.6%

women respectively. Among the mothers 10.9% consumed less than 500 ml of water every day and 10%

did not drink milk at all. Majority 94 (85%) were aware of vulval and perineal hygiene. Household work was

avoided by 56% of the women while 86.3% avoided going outdoors. Many women took home remedies for

faster recuperation. These practices were influenced by the socioeconomic status and the woman’s

educational status.

CONCLUSION Traditional postpartum practices are still popular among women in rural Karnataka. It is

critical to identify the harmful practices and reinforce the positive healthy practices to make postpartum

period a healthy and joyful period for the mother.