Authors: Callister, Lynn Clark; Khalaf, Inaam

Source: The Journal of Perinatal Education, Volume 19, Number 2, 2010 , pp. 16-24(9)

Publisher: Springer Publishing Company

Abstract:

Childbearing is the ideal context within which to enrich spirituality. The purpose of this study was to generate themes regarding spirituality and religiosity among culturally diverse childbearing women. A secondary analysis was performed, using existing narrative data from cross-cultural studies of childbearing women. The following themes emerged from the data: childbirth as a time to grow closer to God, the use of religious beliefs and rituals as powerful coping mechanisms, childbirth as a time to make religiosity more meaningful, the significance of a Higher Power in influencing birth outcomes, and childbirth as a spiritually transforming experience. In clinical settings, understanding the spiritual dimensions of childbirth is essential. Assessments of childbearing women may include the question, “Do you have any spiritual beliefs that will help us better care for you?”

Articles that cite this article?

Keywords: spirituality; childbirth; birth experiences

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1624/105812410X495514

Publication date: 2010-01-01

More about this publication?

• The Journal of Perinatal Education is the official journal of Lamaze International, whose mission is to promote, support, and protect natural, safe, and healthy birth through education and advocacy. The journal publishes peer-reviewed articles and evidence-based, practical resources that childbirth educators and other health care professionals can use to enhance the quality and effectiveness of their care or teaching to prepare expectant parents for birth.
• Information for Authors
• Submit a Paper
• Subscribe to this Title
• Membership Information
• Information for Advertisers
• Lamaze Education Center
• Lamaze Certification
• Lamaze Members Free Access to Journal Contents Online
• ingentaconnect is not responsible for the content or availability of external websites

Related content

• In this: publication
• By this: publisher
• In this Subject: Obstetrics & Gynecology
• By this author: Callister, Lynn Clark ;  Khalaf, Inaam

Website © Publishing Technology. Article copyright remains with the publisher, society or author(s) as specified within the article.

• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Information for advertisers