Authors :
Sonika Dwivedi; Dr. Payal Sharma
Volume/Issue :
Volume 9 - 2024, Issue 2 - February
Google Scholar :
https://tinyurl.com/4wdyvz9w
Scribd :
https://tinyurl.com/mwd5akwh
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10753241
Abstract :
This study delves into the antenatal practices
of pregnant women in Nangran village, Punjab, India.
Guided by semi-structured interviews and focus group
discussions, data collection was aimed for a
comprehensive exploration of expectant mothers'
experiences. Thematic analysis uncovered a rich cultural
tapestry, illuminating five major themes: "Protective
Rituals and Superstitions," "Cultural Beliefs and
Dietary Practices," "Traditional Practices and Maternal
Home Beliefs," "Gender Preferences and Social Norms,"
and "Social and Community Support and 21 sub-themes,
that influence the experiences of expectant mothers. The
finding reveals that pregnant women in a specific
cultural context follow various traditional and
superstitious practices for protection, adhere to cultural
dietary practices and beliefs, observe traditional rituals
and maternal home norms, express gender preferences
influenced by social norms, and receive strong social and
community support, contributing to their pregnancy
experiences. The study advocates for collaborative
efforts between traditional and modern healthcare
systems to enhance maternal and child health outcomes.
Keywords :
Antenatal Practices, Pregnancy Beliefs, Cultural Traditions, Maternal Health, Focus Group Discussions, Thematic Analysis.
This study delves into the antenatal practices
of pregnant women in Nangran village, Punjab, India.
Guided by semi-structured interviews and focus group
discussions, data collection was aimed for a
comprehensive exploration of expectant mothers'
experiences. Thematic analysis uncovered a rich cultural
tapestry, illuminating five major themes: "Protective
Rituals and Superstitions," "Cultural Beliefs and
Dietary Practices," "Traditional Practices and Maternal
Home Beliefs," "Gender Preferences and Social Norms,"
and "Social and Community Support and 21 sub-themes,
that influence the experiences of expectant mothers. The
finding reveals that pregnant women in a specific
cultural context follow various traditional and
superstitious practices for protection, adhere to cultural
dietary practices and beliefs, observe traditional rituals
and maternal home norms, express gender preferences
influenced by social norms, and receive strong social and
community support, contributing to their pregnancy
experiences. The study advocates for collaborative
efforts between traditional and modern healthcare
systems to enhance maternal and child health outcomes.
Keywords :
Antenatal Practices, Pregnancy Beliefs, Cultural Traditions, Maternal Health, Focus Group Discussions, Thematic Analysis.
