The Phu La’s Folk Knowledge of the Pregnant, Postnatal and Newborn Healthcare in Bac Ha District, Lao Cai Province

Abstract

This article presents various experiences of pregnancy, postnatal mothers, and infants care with Phu La living in Bac Ha district, Lao Cai province. The article points out the importance of raising a family in the community. More (healthy) children equate with more happiness and prosperity in the Phu La community. Special attention to the healthcare of the woman before, during and after delivery, as well as the healthcare of the newborn babies, and young children is important. This attention to health is manifested in different aspects of life such as: eating and drinking regimes, daily activities of the women and the children, various avoidances and taboos, beliefs, rituals, and traditional medicine. Phu La have accumulated a wide breadth of knowledge relating to the care and health of women and children that continues to be effectively transmitted from one generation to another.