Nutrition and health beliefs of mothers during pregnancy and labour

ABSTRACT

Rapid assessment procedures were used to study women's knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding antenatal care during pregnancy, care during labor, nutrition and health knowledge in the presence of different kinds of health facilities. 100 mothers whose last child did not exceed 2 years of age from Menial Shiha Village, Giza Governorate were chosen for this study. 58 said that pregnant women do not need care during pregnancy because it is a normal event and so no interference should be done. Only 6 mothers mentioned that immunization is essential for their children to maintain their health. 63 mothers preferred delivery at home and are accustomed to be attended by traditional birth attendant [TBA] or [daya] because they fell comfortable and secure. In 47 cases, sister-in-law or mother in- law usually attends delivery because they live in the same home. Any sharp unsterilized household tool was used to cut umbilical cord in 61 cases. 60 mothers delayed breast feeding until the 3rd day after delivery. 71 mothers believed that there was no need for special food during pregnancy, but 77 of them mentioned that large quantities of food should be eaten during pregnancy irrespective of its quality. On the other hand, 37 mothers believed that some foods; e.g., fried onion, meat, tea, coffee, pickles should not be eaten or drunk during pregnancy because it was bad for health. Boiled egg was given during labor in 32 cases because it leads to more frequent uterine contraction. Protein foods such as meat and poultry [especially chicken] was offered to 76 mothers immediately after delivery because they believed that the uterus felt sorrow from losing its baby and there must be immediate replacement by chicken