Traditional and Scientific Approach on Post Natal Care: a Systematic Review

Abstract

During the post natal period several problems can occur in mothers and new borns where tradition and culture give impact on postnatal health. Therefore, the present review is undertaken to know the traditional practices related to postnatal care of Srilankan mothers related to herbal usage and emphasize scientific evidence

Data were collected from informants via different part of Srilanka from the major threecommunities such as Tamils, Sinhalese and Muslims, reputed journals and websites such as MEDLINE, CINAHL, POPLINE and Global Index Medicus.Pubmed.Srilankan traditional practices strictly adopt the specific dietetics and regimen while mothers will not allow  to have bath after childbirth  for the next three days. However after the childbirth, the mother’s body would be wiping with warm water for blood to flow better. Woman in the confinement period is also advised not to bathe in the early morning and evening as to avoid the ‘wind’ from entering the body and causing body aches and pains. During the herbal bath, the temperature of the water need to be warm to hot and with various types of herbs such as Azadirachtaindica, Pavataindica, Gossepium herbaceum and Vitexnigundo. Plants contain valuable phytochemicals and antioxidant properties which play the major role for management for problems in post natal period.