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 …

…process. While it is clear that these three societies are markedly different on many levels, the parallels and similarities belie the concept that those differences are more significant, more prevalent than the similarities. Essentially, the biological and physiological components of childbirth dictate that certain responses will correspond intrinsically among cultures. However, the uniqueness of individual reactivity will perpetuate distinction between different societies and will compel us to constantly alter our perceptions of difference and similarity.