Japanese Culture
The information on this web site reflects the opnions of Japanese women that our group interviewed and may not be the same as others of this culture. The information is meant to be informational and should not be used in place of appropriate medical care. If you you are pregnant, please seek prenatal care form a Doctor or Licensed Health Care Practitioner.
Significant Foods
The Japanese women interviewed believe that...
Superstitions & Beliefs
Activities & Restrictions
The Japanese women interviewed believe that...
- Eating "okai," (rice and ume [pickled plum]) will decrease nausea & vomiting.
- Eating lots of seaweed will promote lot's of black hair on their babies.
- Eating fish will make their baby smarter.
- Eating cold foods will reduce blood flow to the baby, therefore it was contraindicated.
- Eating a lot of soy beans, fruits and vegetables would ensure good health to the baby.
- Hot miso soup is believed to help with lactation and was started before the baby arrived.
- Eating Mochi will help with milk production.
- Pregnant Japanese women
should not look at fire because it is believed the baby will then be born
with a birthmark.
- Praying to "Odaison" (Japanese Priest) daily, will make their pregnancy and baby healthy with no complications.
- Pregnant Japanese women are encouraged to think of happy things when they are pregnant and listen to calm music. This is good for her "Taiku" (inner zen); this will keep the baby happy and free from stress.
Activities & Restrictions
- Pregnant Japanese women should "take it easy" for the first three months of pregnancy, then they can increase the amount of exercise or work around the house to help make labor easier.
- Tai Chi exercises are done to promote balance and well being.
- Exercise is believed to help with labor.
- Binding the stomach while working was essential for support. This was continued until delivery.
Health Awareness- Many Japanese women today, believe in modern health practices such as: early prenatal care, prenatal vitamins, proper nutrition. Japanese women believe this is important for maternal & fetal well being.
- The Japanese women interviewed believe that it is very important to know danger signs of pregnancy.
This information was complied by students enrolled in the Hawaii Community College Associate Degree Nursing Class of 2009.
We appreciate your feedback! Please email us your comments.
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Posted November 7, 2008