Food taboos among pregnant Nigerian Women in Ilorin.

Abstract

Background: Myths and taboos play an important role in the lives of women in the area as in other parts of the world. Some taboos can be dysfunctional or harmful. Objectives: To examine food taboos related to pregnancy and their perception by the women. Methods: There were 275 respondents through use of questionnaires applied at antenatal clinics. Results: Mean age was 29.08 years. 192(72%) of the respondent had tertiary levels of education and 32% to 75% were not in agreement with the food taboos and the possible negative effects attached. In the taboo associated with avoidance of caffeinated drink, there was a greater proportion in agreement 49% compared to 32%. Conclusion: Belief and adherence to food taboos is reducing in our environment as a result of increase in level of education, occupation and urbanization. No significant negative effect on past pregnancy outcomes was observed. Change should be approached in form of educating the women. This can be done during the health talks given by the nurses during antenatal visits and more importantly through increase in formal education especially to higher levels.