Cultural Beliefs and Traditional Practices Affecting Maternal Healthcare: Implications for Maternal Health Outcomes in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

Maternal healthcare decisions, experiences of pregnancy and birthing outcomes are influenced by cultural beliefs and traditional practices notably in low and middle income countries. Cultural traditions can give emotional support, social cohesiveness and community-based care, but some beliefs and practices can hinder the prompt use of expert maternity services or contribute to delays in recognising and managing obstetric problems. This review explores the influence of cultural beliefs, traditional birth attendants, herbal treatments, dietary restrictions, spiritual interpretations of pregnancy problems, gender relations and family decision-making on maternal healthcare utilisation. It also looks at the relationship between cultural practices and socio-economic disadvantage, healthcare access and the quality of maternity services. Family expectations, religious views, prior experiences with health care and community attitudes of childbirth shape maternal health care decisions in Nigeria and other culturally varied settings. However, cultural behaviours should not be viewed as universally negative, since many provide vital social support and can help people to participate with health care. Therefore, an effective intervention should include a combination of respectful maternity care, culturally sensitive health education, community engagement and working together with traditional birth attendants and community leaders. The review indicates that to enhance maternal health, measures that are sensitive to cultural variety, while addressing practices that may expose women to preventable hazards are needed. Integrating community knowledge with evidence-based obstetric care may enhance trust, prompt referral, and mother health outcomes.