Running head: CULTURAL COMPETENCE

Cultural Competence Presentation: Filipino

Ray Velasco
N320

Running head: CULTURAL COMPETENCE

There are some prenatal beliefs that are unique to Filipinos. Some are
practical in nature while some are absolutely surreal They are encouraged to eat
well and satisfy all their cravings for the health of the fetus. Traditional Filipinos
believe that pregnant women must eat to their satisfaction to keep the baby healthy.
According to their belief, the diet of expectant mothers has a direct effect on the
baby. For example, eating calamansi, a fruit similar to lemon, will give the baby a
nice, smooth complexion. This unique belief stems from the use of calamansi as
facial treatment for acne and wrinkles. On the other hand, eating balut, a 2 week
duck embryo, will make the baby hairy. Pregnant Filipino women are also
encouraged to eat foods that are slippery such as soups and raw eggs to facilitate the
easy delivery of the baby.
When Filipino women are expecting, their activities tend to be limited.
Traditionally, pregnant women are discouraged from working outside the home.
They are discouraged from attending funerals as it might result in the baby being
possessed by spirits, which could ultimately lead to dystocia and fetal death. The
expectant mother is abstained from jumping as it might cause fetal demise. Pregnant
women are not allowed to wear anything around their necks as it may cause the
umbilical cord to wrap around the babys neck. They are advised against wearing
tight-fitted clothing as it may cause the baby to become handicap. Some even believe
that seeing a handicap person or animal during pregnancy can lead to fetal
deformities.
Determining the sex of the baby can be done in various ways. The baby is
thought to be a boy if mothers belly is pointy and set high, when she steps wit her
left foot first, if she craves for sour foods, and if she is beautiful throughout her
pregnancy. On the other hand, the baby is thought to be a girl if the belly if round
and low set, steps with the right foot first, craves for sweet foods, and appears to
lose beauty throughout the pregnancy. The reason for the latter is that the female
baby is stealing the beauty from the mother. In retrospect, some of these things may

Running head: CULTURAL COMPETENCE

be true. My mother craved for sour foods and remained beautiful throughout her
pregnancy!
The laboring Filipino woman is discouraged from eating. She is encouraged
to walk around before the membranes rupture as it promotes vasodilation. Noise is
typically kept at a minimum as they are thought to intensify labor pains. Vaginal
delivery is expected but cesarean is also accepted if medically indicated. The
immediate family is usually present after the delivery. They provide a cross for the
child to wear as protection from evil spirits. Preparation for the newborn is typically
the same as any other culture. The nursery is prepared before birth. The whole
family is involved in the care of the newborn. Traditional practice is bed rest for
one-week post partum. This gives the mother ample time to recuperate and bond
with her child. The rest of family takes over the household tasks. Traditional Filipino
mothers also do not bathe for 10 days post partum. During that time, perineal care is
achieved with mild soap, warm water, and a few drops of vinegar. Filipino mothers
also sit in a bucket filled with boiled guava leaves to relieve pain in the perineum. It
is also important for the mother to avoid cold drinks and exposure to cold weather.
It is believed to predispose the mother to arthritic complications.
The mother is the most important caregiver in the Filipino culture.
Breastfeeding is expected of all Filipino mothers, usually until 1 year old. The birth
of the baby is celebrated with a family party and 1st birthday parties are usually the
biggest celebration with all family members present. The care for the child is shared
between family members, especially the grandparents. If a problem with the baby
should arise, the father is consulted first before breaking the news to the mother.

Running head: CULTURAL COMPETENCE

Reference
Baylon, B. (2014, February 28) Telephone interview.