Preliminary communication
Childbirth and the infant in the west Bilogora area in the mid-20th century
Ivana Ružić
Abstract
Data collected during two field researches from places in the west Bilogora area concerning childbirth and living conditions of mothers and children during the mid-20th century period is shown in the paper. The theme of women is underrepresented in ethnological literature. Consequently, emphasis is placed on the position of women in the community. Despite being regarded as a constitutive part of life, pregnancy was not extensively talked about or given too much attention. The data showed that the number of children in this period was not high, as well as the number of child deaths. Childbirth still took place at home, with the help of an experienced midwife or a woman from the village. Giving birth in hospitals became more frequent in the 1960s. Contraception was not prevalent and abortions were confirmed on all locations. Some beliefs connected to women and children were kept to the present day.
Keywords
childbirth; woman; child; west Bilogora; Sveti Ivan Žabno; mid-20th century
Hrčak ID:
175625
URI
Publication date:
28.12.2016.
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