ASSESSMENT OF SOCIO CULTURAL BELIEFS AND PRACTICES AMONG POST NATAL MOTHERS ABOUT HEALTH CARE IN GADAG DISTRICT KARNATAKA

Background: Culture may be defined as a shared system of beliefs, values, and behavioural expectations that provide social structure for daily living. Much of the woman's behaviour during the postpartum period is strongly influenced by her cultural background, This study was conducted to identify the cultural practices among the postnatal mothers in selected PHC lakkundi village Gadag district. The data was collected from 200 samples. The postpartum period continues to be an important part of the tradition and culture among Indian women. But frequently the health of the postnatal women is neglected. So, the present study aimed to assess the factors influencing of cultural practices about the postnatal care and to identify the factors influencing the cultural beliefs and practices during the postnatal period among mothers and family members. Objectives 1) To assess the factors influencing of cultural practices about the postnatal care. 2) To identify the factors influencing the cultural beliefs and practices during the postnatal period among mothers and family members. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in rural village, Lakkundi that comes under Gadag district. Formal permission was obtained from Medical Officer of selected PHC. The data was obtained from 200 postnatal mother. The purpose of the study was explained to mothers and informed consent was obtained from them. Through purposive sampling, mothers were selected. Data was collected using a semi structured interview schedule. Results: Among the 200 women, over 75% of women had increased their diet intake postpartum. Vegetables such as brinjal and fruits like papaya were avoided by 58.5% and 63.6% women respectively. Among the mothers 80% consumed less than 500 ml of water every day and 22% did not drink milk at all. Many women didn’t maintain personal hygiene. Many women took home remedies for faster recuperation. These practices were influenced by their mothers, ancestors, and the woman’s educational status. Conclusion: Cultural beliefs about the postpartum practices are still popular among women in rural and slum areas. It is critical to identify the harmful practices and reinforce the positive healthy practices to make postpartum period a healthy and joyful period for the mother.