Childbirth in the Eipo, Wogeo

A detailed Summary of Childbirth in the Eipo, Wogeo

Childbirth practices vary among all cultures. Some of the differences are quite extreme and obvious whereas others are decidedly more subtle. Despite the apparent differences, there are also similarities inherent in the beliefs about, approaches to and methods of giving birth. Some child bearing customs among American women, Wogeo women and Eipo women are clearly unique to their respective cultures but most are representative of fundamental similarities.

Women from all three cultures typically go some place outside the home to give birth. Consequently, the delivery of a baby becomes more of a public event than a private event. Eipo women go to a hut, usually built on the outskirts of the village, during menstruation, illness and childbirth. Wogeo women bear their young on a nearby beach and then continue to spend a certain amount of time away from home (until they are ritually clean) in a small hut following the delivery. Most American women also experience the birthing process away from home in either hospitals or birthing centers.

Eipo, Wogeo and American women evidently also recognize the importance of having supporters and assistants present throughout the stages of labor and delivery. Expectant women in each of t

hese societies are usually surrounded by persons who are experienced in childbirth procedures, and are therefore able to provide comfort and support as well as perform necessary interventions. Eipo and Wogeo women are usually attended to by female relatives. These attendants might assist the pregnant woman by ensuring that there are enough clean leaves for her to deliver on or by suggesting birthing positions that will facilitate the delivery. American women are typically surrounded by numerous assistants and supporters during labor and birth. The father of the child is often present and a team of doctors, nurses, midwives, anesthesiologists, etc. are often present to support the mother-to-be during childbirth.

Additionally, men also play important roles in childbirth in the Eipo, the Wogeo and the American societies. A Wogeo father for example will assist the delivery by carefully adhering to specific rituals and beliefs such as making sure that all knots in the house are untied and all boxes are open. The father must also not engage in "violent exercise" and he should avoid all contact with certain weapons and tools, specifically axes, arrows and knives. Both Eipo and Wogeo men act as the spiritual healers within their cultures as well and are frequently called upon to assist with childbirth at critical junctures or during emergencies. American fathers are often involved at every stage of pregnancy. For instance, men will generally accompany women to obstetrical appointments, they will participate in labor coaching/ Lamaze classes and will usually participate in the actual labor and delivery in some way (i.e. cutting the umbilical cord). American men also serve as nurses, doctors, midwives, etc. and are therefore also essential in that capacity to the childbirth process.

Finally, Eipo women specifically regard child bearing and rearing as one of their primary contributions to society. Unmarried

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