Background of the study:
Traditional naming ceremonies are a culturally significant rite of passage in Ugep Local Government, Cross River State. These ceremonies, steeped in rich symbolism and community participation, mark the introduction of a newborn into the cultural heritage of the community (Etim, 2023; Mbanefo, 2024). While the ceremonies themselves are primarily celebratory, they are interwoven with beliefs about neonatal health and protection. Rituals performed during the naming process are believed to confer blessings, ward off evil, and ensure the infant's long-term well-being. However, some traditional practices during these ceremonies may also include the application of herbal substances or other methods that have unverified health benefits or risks (Ifeanyi, 2025). Recent research has indicated that cultural practices surrounding neonatal care have complex influences on health outcomes, necessitating an investigation into their impacts on early life health (Okoro, 2023). This study aims to evaluate how traditional naming ceremonies influence neonatal health by exploring both beneficial practices and potential health risks, with the goal of informing culturally respectful healthcare policies.
Statement of the problem:
In Ugep, while traditional naming ceremonies are culturally significant, certain practices during these rites may inadvertently compromise neonatal health. The use of unregulated herbal remedies or non-sterile practices during ceremonies has raised concerns about infection risks and other health complications. These practices, coupled with a lack of integration with modern neonatal care, contribute to uncertainties regarding their overall impact on infant health (Udo, 2024).
Objectives of the study:
To document the traditional practices involved in naming ceremonies.
To assess the influence of these practices on neonatal health outcomes.
To propose guidelines for integrating safe traditional practices with modern neonatal care.
Research questions:
What traditional practices are observed during naming ceremonies in Ugep?
How do these practices impact neonatal health?
What measures can ensure safe integration of cultural practices with modern health protocols?
Research Hypotheses:
Traditional naming practices have a measurable impact on neonatal health outcomes.
Certain traditional practices may pose health risks to newborns.
Culturally sensitive interventions can mitigate health risks while preserving tradition.
Significance of the study:
This study is significant as it addresses the intersection of cultural heritage and neonatal health. It offers recommendations for safeguarding infant health while respecting traditional practices, potentially informing culturally integrated health policies (Okon, 2023).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study is limited to examining the influence of traditional naming ceremonies on neonatal health in Ugep Local Government, focusing on cultural practices and their health implications.
Definitions of terms:
Naming ceremony: A cultural ritual celebrating the formal naming of a newborn.
Neonatal health: The health status of newborns during the first 28 days of life.
Cultural practices: Traditional activities and rituals that define a community’s heritage.
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