A Cross Cultural Examination of Prenatal Care and Birthing Practices

Prenatal care is health care given to a pregnant woman and fetus until delivery, there is no set prenatal care routine nor are delivery practice, like women, each culture’s prenatal care and birthing practices unique. Both Eastern and Ayurvedic medicine use centuries-old techniques and beliefs from ancient times to today such as food taboos and suggestions. Some of these ancient prescriptions and treatments are disputed by modern medicine, whereas treatments such as Eastern Acupuncture or Ayurvedic Yoga have been found to be beneficial and have been implemented worldwide. This sharing and spread of knowledge helps the human race develop, a key focus of this literature review. Both the United States and Europe went from heavy reliance on midwives and community assistance to utilization of hospitals and advanced medical technology largely due to the historically high maternal and infant mortality rates. Contrastingly, Native Americans have yet to significantly change their prenatal and birthing practices. Indigenous mothers rely on superstitions, herbal remedies, and community to protect their unborn children. Sub-Saharan Africa has a high maternal mortality possibly due to mothers preferring to continue use of traditional birth attendants. African medicine has various cultural pregnancy practices such as food taboos and burying the placenta. The Middle East is plagued with wars undoubtedly bringing tremendous stress to expecting mothers which can be detrimental to the woman and fetus. Patient care may benefit worldwide from having culture practices taught in medical schools, and from health professionals practicing cultural humility.