In this blog post, we will explore the postpartum practices of the Igbo people of Nigeria and the community support they provide for new mothers. We will examine the cultural values and beliefs that underpin these practices, as well as their impact on maternal and infant health.
The Igbo, also commonly referred to as Igo people, are one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria, with a rich cultural heritage that spans thousands of years. One of the most important aspects of Igbo culture is the emphasis on community and family, which is reflected in their postpartum practices. In traditional Igbo culture, the first 40 days after a woman gives birth are considered a critical period for her physical and emotional well-being. During this time, the new mother is expected to rest and recover, while her family and community members provide her with essential care and support.
One of the key elements of Igbo postpartum care is the practice of "omugwo.” The term "omugwo" is derived from the Igbo language and means "to take care of a nursing mother and her baby". During omugwo, the mother or mother-in-law stays with the new mother for a period of one to three months, depending on the family's traditions and resources.
The primary aim of omugwo is to support the new mother in her recovery from childbirth and to provide assistance with the newborn baby's care. The responsibilities of the omugwo caregiver typically include cooking nutritious meals for the new mother, providing emotional support, and helping with household chores. They also take care of the newborn, helping with bathing, feeding, and changing diapers. Additionally, the omugwo caregiver may offer advice and support to the new mother on issues such as breastfeeding, parenting, and managing postpartum depression. Omugwo is seen as an important part of Igbo culture and is considered a time-honored tradition. It is believed that the practice helps to strengthen family bonds and promotes intergenerational relationships between mothers and daughters. Omugwo also provides an opportunity for the new mother to rest and recover from the physical and emotional stress of childbirth, which is seen as crucial for her overall health and well-being.
Community support for new mothers is deeply rooted in Igbo culture and is seen as a collective responsibility. Relatives, friends, and neighbors are expected to offer practical and emotional assistance to new mothers during the postpartum period. This support can include cooking and cleaning, running errands, and providing companionship and conversation. The role of community support in promoting maternal and infant health is well-established in research. Studies have shown that women who receive social support from their communities during the postpartum period are more likely to breastfeed exclusively and have lower rates of depression and anxiety.
In conclusion, the Igbo offer a powerful example of a culture that prioritizes community care for new mothers. Their traditional postpartum practices, which emphasize rest, recovery, and emotional support, are a testament to the importance of community in promoting maternal and infant health. These practices are deeply rooted in cultural values and beliefs and continue to have relevance today as a model for communities around the world to prioritize the well-being of new mothers and their families.
Warmly,
Brittany DeNucci
Acholonu, C. (2015). The Postpartum Practices of Igbo Women in Nigeria. Midwifery Today with International Midwife, (116), 24-26.
Dairo, M. D., Afolayan, J. A., Kuti, O. I., & Orji, E. O. (2015). Community participation and exclusive breastfeeding among mothers in rural and urban Lagos, Nigeria. Journal of human lactation: official journal of International Lactation Consultant Association, 31(1), 109-118.
Gjerdingen, D. K., & Chaloner, K. M. (2012). The relationship of social support and postpartum depression in African American women. Journal of obstetric, gynecologic, and neonatal nursing: JOGNN / NAACOG, 41(2), 227-238.
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