Miscarriage is a difficult experience for any couple to go through. It comes as a shock to the system and can lead to emotional and physical distress. However, there is a growing interest in using an anthropological approach to preventing miscarriages.

Anthropology is the study of human societies and cultures, and how they interact with each other and the environment.

What Causes Miscarriages?

Current research shows that genetic abnormalities, infections, hormonal imbalances, and structural problems are the major causes of miscarriage.

Anthropologists, on the other hand, focus on external factors that can lead to a miscarriage, such as cultural beliefs, food habits, environmental pollutants, and social inequalities.

Cultural Beliefs and Miscarriage

Cultural beliefs play a significant role in how people view pregnancy, childbirth, and prenatal care.

For example, in many African cultures, pregnancy is celebrated as a community event, and women are surrounded by family and friends throughout their pregnancy. This social support reduces stress and anxiety, which are risk factors for miscarriage.

On the other hand, Western cultures tend to view pregnancy as a private matter, and women are left to deal with the physical, emotional, and social changes alone.

This lack of social support can result in stress, anxiety, and depression, which increase the risk of miscarriage.

Food Habits and Miscarriage

Anthropologists have also looked into the relationship between food habits and miscarriage. Certain foods are believed to cause miscarriage, such as papaya, pineapple, and hot spices.

In some cultures, pregnant women also avoid specific foods, such as beef, lamb, and shellfish due to beliefs that they can cause miscarriage.

However, studies have shown that a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for a healthy pregnancy and reduces the risk of miscarriage.

Pregnant women should eat a diet that comprises fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains to ensure they get all the necessary nutrients.

Environmental Pollutants and Miscarriage

Environmental pollutants such as lead, mercury, and air pollution have been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage.

Anthropologists have researched how exposure to these pollutants affects human health and found that they can cause birth defects and pregnancy complications.

Therefore, it’s crucial to advocate for policies that limit exposure to environmental pollutants and promote cleaner air and water.

Individuals can also reduce their exposure to environmental pollutants by adopting sustainable practices, such as using organic products, eating locally grown food, and reducing their carbon footprint.

Social Inequalities and Miscarriage

Social inequalities such as poverty, discrimination, and poor healthcare access can also increase the risk of miscarriage.

Anthropologists have looked into how social inequalities affect maternal health, and they’ve found that women who experience poverty, discrimination, and lack of healthcare access are more susceptible to adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Therefore, it’s crucial to address social inequalities and advocate for policies that promote economic justice, equal rights, and universal access to healthcare.

Individuals can also take small steps to reduce social inequalities, such as donating to charities that promote social justice and volunteering in their communities.

Conclusion

Miscarriage is a complex issue that requires an interdisciplinary approach to address.

Anthropology provides a unique perspective on how cultural beliefs, food habits, environmental pollutants, and social inequalities contribute to the risk of miscarriage. By adopting an anthropological approach, we can create policies and practices that promote maternal health and reduce the risk of miscarriage.