The introduction of Western medicine through public health programs and new medical centers in many regions, especially in rural areas, has generated conflict between local traditional practitioners and Western modes of care, specifically around pregnancy and childbirth. This in turn, has generated a general devaluing of traditional practices of healthcare, and the degradation and discrediting of traditional healers and midwives. This article aims to describe the customs related to childbirth that Matsigenka women in the native community of Camisea currently practice. Additionally, this article looks at what is taught to a young woman during her first menstruation, care during the pregnancy and postpartum periods; finally explains the relationship of the Matisgenka women of the Camisea community with the public health system.

The introduction of Western medicine through public health programs and new medical centers in many regions, especially in rural areas, has generated conflict between local traditional practitioners and Western modes of care, specifically around pregnancy and childbirth. This in turn, has generated a general devaluing of traditional practices of healthcare, and the degradation and discrediting of traditional healers and midwives. This article aims to describe the customs related to childbirth that Matsigenka women in the native community of Camisea currently practice. Additionally, this article looks at what is taught to a young woman during her first menstruation, care during the pregnancy and postpartum periods; finally explains the relationship of the Matisgenka women of the Camisea community with the public health system.

La comunidad nativa de Camisea es una de las comunidades representativas de los cambios acelerados que vive el Bajo Urubamba desde el ingreso de las iglesias católica y evangélica, pero también por la presente convivencia con el Proyecto gasífero más importante del país que lleva su nombre. Los cambios sociales, ambientales y culturales que vive la población son también reflejados en el momento del parto. La investigación realizada propone describir y analizar las prácticas tradicionales vinculadas al parto que actualmente llevan a cabo las mujeres del pueblo Matsigenka de la comunidad nativa de Camisea. De esta manera, se busca comprender las concepciones, prácticas culturales y costumbres que las mujeres tienen sobre sus partos, además de los aprendizajes durante la primera menstruación, los cuidados en el embarazo, posparto y el cuidado de los niños y niñas. Asimismo, s...