Somalia’s unique culture and belief system has a strong influence on the birthing practices of Somali women. These birthing practices vary from typical American birth practices in a variety of ways, including beliefs regarding cesarean sections, preferences for female care providers, issues surrounding infibulation, lack of prenatal care and education, religious influences, and views on pain, among a variety of other issues. It is important for nurses to be aware of cultural differences in order to provide culturally competent care to all women. Somalia is a country located on the horn of Africa. All Somalis share a uniform language, religion, and culture, unlike most parts of Africa. It is common for women to marry at a young age, and the ability to have many children is highly valued. It is estimated that the maternal mortality rate is 1,400 per 100,000 women, one of the highest in the world. Somalia’s lack of medical care during pregnancy and delivery contributes to their high infant and maternal mortality rates.
The experience of pregnancy and the labor and delivery process in Somalia differs in many ways from that of women in the United States. It is important that health care providers in the United States are aware of these differences because 32% of the refugees in the U.S. are from Somalia, so it is likely that providers will care for a Somali female at some point in their careers. In Somalia, cesarean sections are rarely discussed and typically not performed (Ameresekere, et al., 2011). Somali women also feel that the entire labor process is rushed in the United States. In Somalia, it is common to have a baby between 9½ and 10 months, as a larger infant is preferred. They also believe that it is up to Allah to decide when the baby is to arrive. Techniques are used to facilitate progression of labor and pain management, such as position changes,