World Maternal Mental Health Month
May has been named World Maternal Mental Health Month. It is so important we support our mamas and increase awareness around their needs. Below are some interesting practices and traditions honoring child birth from around the world. Which ones would you like to add to your own traditions?
No meds
Did you know that in many countries taking medication to ease the pain of child birth is unheard of. This is a common practice in The Netherlands as well as Japan. In fact in Japan, it is believed that the pain of labor and giving birth prepares the mother for the difficulties of being a mother.
Midwives only, please!
In Germany, midwives are the preference of expecting mothers. Midwives do most of the deliveries in Germany and are required to be present during births. Doctors are optional for the process.
Caring for mama and baby after birth
In Japan, new mothers stay with their parents and are cared for by the family with everyone pitching in. During this time they stay in bed and bond with baby for 21 days.
- Nigerian grandmothers help new moms by getting her back to her pre-pregnancy body be giving her belly flattening massages with a hot towel dipped in hot water. She also gives the baby his or her first bath which symbolizes that the mother is not alone and that she will always have the support of her community around her to help with the child.
- In Latin America, women rest for 40 days where their female relative and friends care for her and the household duties to allow her to recover. This time is known as la cuarentena (“quarantine”). Mothers dedicate themselves to breastfeeding and caring for the baby. They also abstain from sex, strenuous work, and spicy foods.
Gift giving
- Brazilian mothers give small gifts and a thank you note from baby when visitors come to see the new baby instead of the visitor bringing the gift for her.
- In Finland, the state gives mothers a gift box filled with essentials. The care package includes clothes, diapers, and bedding that is enclosed in a cardboard box that can also serve as a baby crib/bed. This practice began to help low-income families and give all babies an equal start in life. In 1949, the boxes began being distributed to all babies after birth. Finland also has one of the lowest infant mortality rates in the world.
Katrina Stoddard,
LCMFT
*sources:
Birth Customs Around the World, www.parents.com
Pregnancy and Birth Traditions Around the World, www.thebump.com
11 Unique Birthing Traditions Around The World, www.huffpost.com
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