Impact of ritual pollution on lactation and breastfeeding practices in rural West Bengal, India.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Breastfeeding in India is universal and prolonged. Several cultural practices are associated with lactation and breastfeeding in India, mainly revolving around the concept of ritual purity and 'hot and cold' foods, food avoidance, restricted diet after childbirth, and remaining in seclusion for a certain time period because of the polluting effects of childbirth. This study on breastfeeding practices explored how the concept of ritual pollution influenced practices after delivery, including during lactation and breastfeeding.

Methods

The study was conducted in four villages of West Bengal State in India, representing different levels of socioeconomic development, religion, and caste/tribe from September 1993 to April 1994. One hundred households with one woman res

SUBMITTER: Bandyopadhyay M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2667394 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature