Cultural differences in child delivery: comparisons between Jewish and Arab women in Israel

Abstract

To compare Jewish and Arab women characteristics regarding pregnancy follow-up, compliance to a health regime and behavioural expressions during labour, delivery and the post-partum period. The participants answered a 45-item questionnaire designed for the current research. The first three post-partum days in the delivery ward at one of the biggest hospitals in Israel. A total of 126 Jewish and Arab-Muslim parturients. Significant differences were found (P < 0.01) concerning pregnancy follow-up attendance and participation in a prenatal course, which were lower among Arab women. Several differences were found regarding delivery room attendance, type and number of companions, and behavioural expressions of pain, which were demonstrated more among Arab women. Epidural anaesthesia was highly prevalent among Jewish women, in comparison with the Arab women. While all Arab women decided to breastfeed their babies, only 71% of Jewish women expressed a wish to breastfeed. No significant differences were found between weight gains during pregnancy, reasons for delivery room attendance, number of pregnancy weeks prior to delivery and newborn weight. Cultural differences exist between Jewish and Arab women attending delivery rooms in Israel. Understanding these cultural differences may assist caregivers in providing culturally sensitive treatment that is suited to the parturients' needs.