TRANSCULTURAL MIDWIFERY: Adapting to Hmong Birthing Customs in California

Nurse-midwifery care can adapt to incorporate birth customs and practices of immigrant groups seeking childbirth care. This paper explores birthing traditions among the Hmong, Laotian people. Fifteen Hmong men and women immigrants to Isla Vista, California were interviewed. The information gathered revealed the need to maintain traditional Hmong customs to facilitate both physical and emotional well-being during childbirth in the United States. Birthing and dietary traditions can be adapted within the hospital setting, if the nurse-midwife is aware of the need.