cultural beliefs in OB

Hispanic - pregnancy (3)

cool air in motion dangerous, pica- eating ashes/dirt (uncommon), and unacceptable to be examined by a male HCP

Hispanic - labor (2)

loud behavior and mother’s legs brought together to prevent air from entering uterus after birth

Hispanic - postpartum (2)

keep warm and mother cared for by her own mother

Hispanic -newborn (2)

breastfeeding after third day and colostrum considered filthy/spoiled/not enough nourishment

African-American - pregnancy (2)

“wellness” reason for delay in care and reaching up will cause cord to strangle baby

African-American - labor

emotional support from other women

African-American - postpartum (2)

vaginal bleeding a sign of sickness and baths/shampooing prohibited

Asian-American - pregnancy (3)

prefer female HCP, no milk (causes stomach distress), and inactivity/sleeping may cause difficult birth

Asian-American - labor (2)

father does not actively participate and silence

Asian-American - postpartum (4)

must protect self from yin/cold forces for 30 days, ambulation limited, shower/bath prohibited, and warm room/consume warm fluids

Asian-American - newborn (2)

prefer a boy and colostrum dirty

Native American - pregnancy (3)

normal/natural process, late prenatal care, and avoid heavy lifting

Native American - labor

prefer female attendant

Native American - newborn

infant not fed colostrum