Understanding Traditions for Managing Indian Patients during Pregnancy and Post-Partum

Introduction The Indian society is a traditional society following many customs during pregnancy and post-partum. The study is around understanding the cultural beliefs of educated Indian women around childbirth, prevalent in the society. Since Indians are living in different countries, the understanding of such customs can make it easier for obstetrician or mid wife to treat such couples and also give relevant information around the belief. 196 women were given an online survey in English to fill post-partum to document the common beliefs. The questions asked tried to understand background of the patient (age, education, occupation, no of children) and also included questions about common customs and traditions practiced during pregnancy and post-partum. The common Indian traditions were highlighted which are followed post partum and during pregnancy. The study concluded some harmful practices still in use can be discouraged and pregnancy is a good opportunity to counsel the couple about scientific evidence based practice and not just myths. Good practices can be carried on. • What is already known on this topic – Indians have a strong, cultural and traditional practices around child birth. Understanding these practices helps the midwife/Obstetrician in promoting good and healthy practices • What this study adds – The practices in pregnancy and post-partum in educated urban population of India. Many Indians are residing in The UK, The USA and other countries. It helps understand traditional beliefs during pregnancy and post-partum for smoother nine months. • How this study might affect research, practice or policy Around 386 thousand Indians reside in The UAE making it around 38% of population. Hence its important to be aware of cultural practices of the population.