Chinese Myths - Advice During Pregnancy
Pregnancy in Chinese culture is considered a wonderful experience, but one full of danger and risk. Women are treated as glass figurines, and are often controlled heavily by overpowering mothers and mother-in-laws. In contrast to western culture, this kind of care is not only welcomed, but expected.
Looking after a woman during the pregnancy period means limiting and moderating many things, not only for the baby’s health but also for the continued health of the mother herself.
- The most obvious of all is the rule of no intimacy between parent, for the first and last 3 months of pregnancy, for fear of damage to the unborn child. This is especially stressed in mothers who fall into the ‘high risk’ category, such as older mothers and those who had complications before.
- In general the mother is allowed to eat and drink what she wants, but there are limits on spicy food. Alcohol and smoking is strongly prohibited, but Chinese women don’t generally do these things anyway as they are considered inelegant and masculine.
- Because of the idea of 4 eyes being vicious, if a pregnant mother touches other babies, they will become more susceptive to illness throughout their lives
Chinese culture is different to western culture in that the pregnant mother takes it very easy all the way through labour, and hardly ever works beyond about 5 months. Many times the mother doesn’t work at all through the second and third trimester, sometimes not once during the full period. This is quite natural, although times change and career women may choose to give up this privilege.
If you found this interesting and would like to add a comment, either about Chinese culture or the culture of your own country, please do so below.
