Pregnancy and cultural knowledge and practices among Northern Thai women

This chapter examines women's embodied knowledge of pregnancy, women's explanations of precautions during pregnancy and preparations for easy birth. In-depth interviews were conducted in relation to traditional and changed beliefs and practices regarding pregnancy and childbirth with 30 Thai women in Northern Thailand. Childbirth in Thai culture has its social meanings which are a part of the larger social system which involves not only the woman, but also her family, the community, the society and the supernatural world. Traditional beliefs and practices in Thai culture clearly aim to preserve the life and well-being of both a new mother and her newborn. It appears that traditional childbirth practices have not totally disappeared in northern Thailand, but they have also gradually diminished. We also note that women's social backgrounds influence traditional beliefs and practices. The traditions are followed by most rural and some urban poor women in Chiang Mai. The findings of this study may assist health professionals to understand women from different cultures better. It is important to recognise many factors discussed in this chapter within the context of Thai lives and traditions. This will prevent misunderstanding and consequently more sensitive pregnancy and birthing care for pregnant women can be achieved.