Traditional Postpartum Care in Northern Thailand: A Case Study from Bann Hua Suea, Tambon Hua Suea, Mae Tha District, Lampang Province

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to explore community circumstances, traditional postpartum care and passing of knowledge in postpartum care of Bann Hua Suea, Tambon Hua Suea, Mae Tha District, Lampang. Understanding community relevance will assist in gathering information on locality protection and improve traditional medicine. Qualitative research methods, observation, interviews and group discussions were employed for data collection. The key informants included seven elderly persons and those who had experienced traditional postpartum care. Triangulation was used to ensure validity and precision. The findings showed that Bann Hua Suea, a 400-year-old village, was urbanizing. However, a close relationship among relatives was preserved. Most of the community members worked in the agricultural sector. The indigenous culture with regard to religion, occupation and health cares was kept alive. The traditional post-delivery care is called yu-duean-fai or “lying by fire.” The knowledge was passed on within the family. The findings indicated that
traditional postpartum care is based upon beliefs regarding a balance of elements and holistic care of the northern style of traditional medicine. Furthermore, the herbs selected were associated with the local ecology.