Warm bodies, cool milk: Conflicts in post partum food choice for Indochinese women in California

Infant-Feeding Practices of Low-Income Vietnamese American Women

“…2 Achieving these goals are especially challenging for new immigrants whose adjustment to a new environment is often stressful 23,24,25 due to language barriers, limited employment and formal education, environmental challenges, financial status, and lack of a sense of control 18,23,24 In addition, conflicts in cultural practices, inability to follow traditions and beliefs, and lack of social support may negatively affect breastfeeding rates. 12,13,14,16,25,26 However, the present study suggests educational intervention and having positive subjective norms from WIC breastfeeding and nutrition counselors, health care professionals, family and friends may overcome some of these barriers, resulting in breastfeeding rates that meet or exceed Healthy People 2010 goals. In this study, 75% of new mothers initiated any breastfeeding.…”

“…11,13,15 This study indicates a majority of Vietnamese mothers perceived rapid weight gain to be important for infant growth. In Vietnam, Rossiter 16 reported mothers felt breastfed infants had inadequate growth, or were more prone to sickness as compared to formula fed babies who were healthier and "fatter", causing mothers to believe formula was superior to breast milk.…”

“…8,9,12,15,16,17 Studies of breastfeeding practices of Vietnamese-American immigrants also reflect practices of a limited number of women, and do not evaluate use of breastfeeding peer counselors. 10,11,13,14,18 To ultimately increase breastfeeding rates in this population, understanding influences on infant feeding decisions is imperative.…”

An exploratory study of traditional birthing practices of Chinese, Malay and Indian women in Singapore

“…It is practised, not only in China, but also by Chinese people living in other parts of the world. Studies in Hong Kong (Holroyd et al, 1997), Taiwan (Heh et al, 2001), Scotland (Cheung, 1997), California (Fishman et al, 1988), Australia (Matthey et al, 2002), Malaysia (Poh et al, 2005) and Singapore (Chee et al, 2005) have consistently reported that Chinese women practiced zuo yuezi to a certain extent after childbirth.…”

Designing an instructor's manual for introducing cultural concepts in the medical school curriculum

“…Required readings: Harkness (1987), Pillsbury (1978), and Fishman et. al., (1988) Students should read Harkness' discussion of the culturally-specific behaviors and expectations of the postpartum period which, if modified in the U.S., could preclude the experience of depression for many women during this period.…”