Author(s)

Danfeng Fan ¹

Affiliation(s)

¹ Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China

Corresponding Author

Danfeng Fan

ABSTRACT

Perinatal period is a critical stage for maternal and infant health, involving three important phases: pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. During this phase, irrational beliefs can have profound impacts on the diet, behavior, and medical decisions of pregnant women and new mothers. These beliefs often stem from traditional culture, religious beliefs, and social inheritance. This paper systematically analyzes the classification, formation mechanisms, and multidimensional impacts of irrational beliefs during the perinatal period. First, it explores the specific manifestations of irrational beliefs in pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum stage, as well as their potential effects on maternal and infant health, particularly in nutrition, choice of delivery methods, and mental health. Second, it examines the formation mechanisms of irrational beliefs, including cultural inheritance, social environment, cognitive distortions, and physiological factors. Finally, it proposes targeted culturally sensitive intervention strategies to enhance maternal health literacy, promote the dissemination of scientific health concepts, and reduce the negative impact of irrational beliefs on maternal and infant health. Through this study, the aim is to provide theoretical support for public health policies and clinical practice, promoting the optimization of maternal and infant health management.

KEYWORDS

Perinatal Period; Irrational Beliefs; Maternal and Child Health; Cultural Influence; Mental Health

CITE THIS PAPER

Danfeng Fan, The Formation Mechanism of Irrational Beliefs in Perinatal Period and Its Influence on Maternal and Infant Health. MEDS Public Health and Preventive Medicine (2025) Vol. 5: 100-111. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.23977/phpm.2025.050115.

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