CULTURAL PRACTICES AND BELIEFS ON NEWBORN CARE AMONG MOTHERS IN A SELECTED HOSPITAL OF MANGALORE TALUK

Abstract

Background: A human infant from the time of birth upto 28th day of life is called a newborn. Nearly 27 million babies are born in India each year. Every year 4 million babies die in the first month of life in the world and quarter of these takes place in India. A package of essential newborn practices exist in India which has proven impact on reducing mortality. However child birth and neonatal period are culturally important times during which there is strong adhere to traditional practices.Materials and Methods: A descriptive research design was adopted for this study. Purposive sampling method was used to select 157 samples from a selected hospital. Demographic Performa and structured dichotomous questionnaire was used to collect the data from the subject.Results: The data collected from 157 samples were analyzed using descriptive statistics. (149) 95% of the mothers have followed oil massage for the baby before bath. (83) 53% of the mothers have provided home remedies for the baby. (87) 55% of the mothers were applying ashes, soot, powder, or dry cow dung, (115) 73% mothers exposed their babies to the sunlight when the baby's skin turns yellowish. (129) 82% of the mothers are applied 'Kajal' on baby's face to prevent bad eye. (92) 59% of the mothers are practicing a belief that “empty cradle should not be moved”.Interpretation and conclusion: Findings of the study revealed that there is a strong relationship between the demographic variables (type of family and religion) and cultural practices and beliefs on newborn care among mothers. Periodical health education regarding do's and don'ts of newborn care should be conducted in postnatal ward, which will definitely minimize the unhealthy traditional practices.