What is Omugwo in Igbo?

Omugwo is the traditional after birth care amongst the Igbo people of South-Eastern Nigeria. It is given to new mothers by their mothers to help them into motherhood, by providing knowledge and support during the first 40 days of child’s life. It is a practise that some credit for keeping postnatal depression at bay.

How is Omugwo done in Igbo land?

Customarily in Igbo land, the mother-in-law who comes for omugwo must be given some gifts while going back to her home. Sometimes the thought of what to give the mother-in-law brings friction between couples, especially if the man is not blessed with abundant resources.

Who goes for Omugwo in Igbo land?

The mother
Omugwo is the Igbo term for the traditional custom of postpartum care. The mother, mother in law or close female relative come to care for the new mother and baby or host them in their own home. They take on most of the household chores, caring for both mom and baby.

Who does Omugwo?

When the mother is returning home, the grateful son-in-law buys food and gift items in appreciation for her to take back home. This practice of coming to assist a daughter, who had a baby, is called omugwo in Igboland, and it is one of the beauties of African culture, but it does have downsides.

What happens during Omugwo?

During omugwo, it’s the responsibility of the mother (of the husband or wife) to put her through what she needs to eat to help with milk production for the baby’s consumption, Swedish massage techniques and hot water therapy. After childbirth, the grandmother helps the new mother with hot water therapy and sitz bath.

What do you buy your mom after Omugwo?

When the mother is returning home,the grateful son in-law buys food and other gift items such as different types of wrapper (lace or hollandis, George, aso oke), shoes, necklace, household consumables, deodorants etc in appreciation.

What do you give your mom after Omugwo?

What is Ile Omugwo?

Omugwo is a traditional Igbo custom for postpartum care by the mother of the couple. The importance of this practice is that it helps the new mother to ease into her new role through the experience of the mother(husband or wife).

What is Omugwo in Yoruba?

Omugwo refers to the period when a close motherly relative takes care of the needs of a newborn baby and its mother.