Beliefs of women receiving maternal and child health services at Chawama Clinic in Lusaka, Zambia regarding pregnancy and child birth

Abstract

The experience of child birth occurs in all cultures and is important for the continuation of a community. Beliefs related to pregnancy and child birth though usually harmless may at times be detrimental to the health and well being of women that may practice them. The adherence to such beliefs depends on the socio cultural background of individuals and the importance they place on their cultural practices. Aim and objectives The study aimed to explore the health beliefs regarding pregnancy and childbirth of women attending the antenatal clinic at Chawama Health Center in Lusaka Zambia. The main study objectives were to determine the demographic characteristics of the women and ascertain their beliefs regarding diet, behaviour and belief in the use of herbs during pregnancy, delivery and the post natal period. Methods A descriptive, cross-sectional survey was conducted. A 32 item questionnaire was administered to 294 women over a four week period by two research assistants, after obtaining informed consent. Results Results indicate that traditional beliefs were wide spread among the participants though few significant associations were demonstrated. Dietary beliefs that what is eaten could ix affect the progress of labor or the unborn child’s appearance or behaviour were popular. Negative behaviour such as quarrelling or infidelity was believed could lead to difficult labour or adverse outcomes. Herbs were generally believed to be useful for certain indications such as to assist labour or for ‘cleansing’ after miscarriage. Conclusion Health beliefs regarding pregnancy and child birth are an integral part of the community and to be discussed in order to have some influence on them. Continued dialogue is recommended though current clinic health education sessions and qualitative studies to explore other beliefs and myths that are arising out of new health concerns such as HIV.