Authors
ELIANA BINTE NASER
Publication date
2012/8/7
Description
This study explored traditional birthing practices of Singaporean women who live in a contemporary multicultural society. It examined the impact of these practices on women¿s sense of well-being (as measured by depressive symptoms), perceived social support, and breastfeeding self-efficacy. This two-phase study consisted of a qualitative and quantitative data collection phase. The aims of this study were to identify the traditional birthing practices of Singaporean Chinese, Malay and Indian women and their effect on emotional well-being, social support and breast feeding self-efficacy. Phase 1 of the study consisted of face-to-face interviews with a purposeful sample of 30 women recruited from outpatient maternity clinics in a tertiary hospital in Singapore. The analysis using Colaizzi¿s method, identified women¿s perceptions of their traditional birthing practices, reasons for adherence, and sources of influence. These findings were used to inform the development of a questionnaire that was piloted and distributed to postnatal women in Singapore. Phase 2 of the study was conducted in three tertiary hospitals in Singapore, from March 2010 until July 2010. Women attending their sixth week postpartum clinic visit were recruited. Five hundred and twenty women (n= 520) participated in the survey. Results of the study: Two broad themes emerged in Phase 1¿following tradition and challenging tradition. Singaporean women experiencing pregnancy and childbirth follow tradition and these practices are influenced by their mother and mother-in-law. Women also adhered to some traditional practices because of worry over possible …