Ethics and the law relating to post-birth rituals

  • Donna Knapp van Bogaert University of the Witwatersrand
  • Gboyega A Ogunbanjo University of Limpopo (Medunsa Campus)
Keywords: placenta, taboo, rituals, tradition, ethics, law

Abstract

Placental rituals and other birth-by rituals are common in various societies. They often include culturally determined behavioural sequences which operate as anxiety-releasing mechanisms. They also serve to offer a spiritual means of “control” over the future health and welfare of mother, child, and even the community. As long as such rituals do not cause harm, they should be respected for the role that they play and be left alone. This article discusses the ethical and legal considerations regarding post-birth rituals and their relevance to South Africa, with special reference to the South African Human Tissue Act.

Author Biographies

Donna Knapp van Bogaert, University of the Witwatersrand
PhD, DPhil Steve Biko Centre for Bioethics Faculty of Health Sciences School of Clinical Medicine University of the Witwatersrand
Gboyega A Ogunbanjo, University of Limpopo (Medunsa Campus)
FCFP(SA), MFamMed, FACRRM, FACTM Department of Family Medicine and Primary Health Care Faculty of Health Sciences University of Limpopo (Medunsa Campus)
Issue
Vol 55 No 1: January/February 2013
Section
Ethics CPD Supplement
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