Cultural Health Practices and its Impact on MCH Care: Perspective of Tribal Women of Himachal Pradesh (India)

Abstract

Maternal and Child Health Care (MCH) is essential for achievement of Sustainable Development Goals. Delivering quality primary care to tribal populations is always challenging, which is the case in India. Cultural practices are often implicated in determining MCH care. This study aimed to explore the existing cultural health practices in tribal areas and its impact on MCH care among tribal women of Himachal Pradesh. In this exploratory study qualitative research approach was adopted. Women of reproductive age group (18-49 years) were selected through stratified sampling techniques from selected tribal areas of district Sirmour (Himachal Pradesh). Data was collected through Focused Group Discussion (FGDs) and Colaizzi method was used for data analysis. The study findings revealed inadequate exclusive breastfeeding, antenatal beliefs, faulty dietary habits, unhealthy practices, less exposure to sunlight, quack treatment and trans cultural issues. In addition, early marriages and inadequate usage of family planning deeply entrenched in cultural values and influence of traditional or spiritual healers etc. refrain them from adequately availing provisions of MCH. Maternal and child mortality is firmly related to certain cultural practices, which create constraints for women seeking maternal and child care. Hence, it is imperative to create awareness regarding impact of cultural practices on MCH care and need to address the health concerns among tribal women to reduce maternal & child mortality rate.