International Journal of Research in Social Sciences
Year : 2017, Volume : 7, Issue : 9
First page : ( 213) Last page : ( 226)
Online ISSN : 2249-2496.

Breastfeedingin manipur: An anthropological exploration

Krishnakumari Pebam¹, Arunkumar M C²

¹Post Doctoral Fellow, Department of Anthropology, Manipur University

²Professor, Department of Anthropology, Manipur University

Online published on 20 June, 2019.

Abstract

Breastfeeding is not a mere nutritional matter but a complex exercise in which the mother-child couple is fully integrated into social dynamics and is the bearer of cultural teachings. Understanding the female reality composing of network of synergies-their task and commitments, bonds and pauses, beliefs, sentiments, emotions and expectation have a bearing on breastfeeding. This paper will examine the cultural and social context of breastfeeding among the Meitei women of Manipur focusing on mother's behaviour and post-partum taboos as key elements in their understanding of the vicissitudes of breast feeding process gleaned from in-depth interviews and focus group discussions of women between the age group of 25–65. This nutritional period is subject to many different events both physical and social that may upset the natural and intense link between mother and child. Any violation of cultural norm, particularly those dealing with sexual behaviour can put at risk the correct development of an infant with serious consequences both for the baby's health and for the woman's image as mother and wife.

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Keywords

Sexuality, breastfeeding, behaviour, nurturer.

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