Background:Perinatal care practices play a crucial role in determining maternal and neonatal health outcomes. In developing regions, these practices are often shaped by deeply rooted sociocultural beliefs, traditions, and prejudices, which may either support or hinder appropriate care. Objective:To assess perinatal care practices and examine the influence of sociocultural ideologies and prejudices among women of reproductive age selected community area in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, and to develop an evidence-based informational booklet to promote safe practices. Methods:A descriptive analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 women of reproductive age residing in selected urban and semi-urban areas of Bhopal. Participants were selected using a convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire consisting of sociodemographic variables, perinatal care practices scale, and sociocultural ideologies assessment tool. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean) and inferential statistics (Chi-square test and correlation coefficient). Results:The findings revealed that 62% of participants had moderate perinatal care practices, while a smaller proportion demonstrated either good or poor practices. A statistically significant association was found between sociocultural beliefs and perinatal care practices (p < 0.05). Additionally, education level and socioeconomic status showed significant associations with both perinatal practices and sociocultural ideologies. Conclusion:Sociocultural ideologies and prejudices significantly influence perinatal care practices among women. There is a need for targeted educational interventions, such as informational booklets and community-based awareness programs, to promote evidence-based practices and improve maternal and neonatal outcomes.
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