Using unsafe traditional practices by Iraqi mothers to treat newborns' problems

Unsafe traditional practices are performed in different societies, especially in developing countries, owing to poverty and low levels of education. Traditional practices are usually derived from the relationship between the environment and human attitudes toward nature. Some traditional practices originate from religious beliefs, cultures, or relatives advising new mothers.

To identify the types of unsafe traditional practices, understand the factors influencing their prevalence, and explore the potential consequences of these practices on newborn health.

This descriptive, correlational study included 200 newborns whose mothers visited primary healthcare centers in Baghdad City. This study was conducted between January 2023 and June 2023. Data were collected from mothers by answering a questionnaire during interviews. The questionnaire consisted of two main parts: sociodemographic characteristics of the mothers and their newborns and 26 questions about traditional practices used to treat health problems in newborns.

A high percentage (84%) of Iraqi mothers used unsafe traditional practices to treat their newborns' problems (jaundice, gastrointestinal problems, sleep problems, eye problems, respiratory problems, bathing, and daily care).

Many Iraqi mothers prefer to use traditional practices such as herbs, oils, burning, and Sagwa to treat their newborns' health problems. These practices can be harmful to newborns and threaten their lives. Therefore, it is recommended that mothers' awareness of traditional practices be increased.