Socio-Cultural Insights of Childbirth in South Asia: Stories of Women in the Himalayas

This book explores the socio-cultural factors that impact childbirth experiences of women in remote and complex social settings,challenging the notion of childbirth as a universal biological event. It provides evidence from research in Nepal and discusses childbirth in the context of other countries and cultures. It advocates for giving women power to make decisions about their childbirth experiences and highlights the importance of addressing broader determinants and valuing childbirth traditions for cultural safety.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 30 July 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate socio-cultural factors that shape childbirth experiences for women residing in remote and complex social contexts. It challenges the notion of childbirth as a universal biological event and presents a social perspective that emphasizes the importance of understanding childbirth from a holistic standpoint. The author draws upon captivating stories of women living in the Himalayas to shed light on how childbirth can be supported to empower women and enable them to take control and ownership of their experiences. Through extensive research conducted in remote mountain regions of Nepal, the book provides valuable evidence and insights into childbirth within the broader context of other countries, cultures, and communities. Employing a feminist lens, the book critically examines medical control over childbirth and advocates for granting women the power to make decisions that align with their unique needs and preferences. By unpacking the complexities associated with women's lives in remote communities, the author highlights the significance of addressing broader determinants that impact birth outcomes and valuing childbirth traditions to ensure cultural safety for women, families, and societies.

Through its exploration of the diverse range of factors influencing women and their childbirth experiences, this book presents a groundbreaking model for childbirth that policy makers, practitioners, communities, educators, researchers, and other professionals can utilize to create an empowering experience for women. It holds particular interest to academics and professionals in the fields of public health, midwifery, health promotion, sociology, and South Asian Studies.

Weight: 458g
Dimension: 160 x 241 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367538040