LES LOGIQUES SOCIOCULTURELLES DES INTERDITS ALIMENTAIRES ET COMPORTEMENTAUX CHEZ LES FEMMES ENCEINTES AGNI N’DÉNIAN (CÔTE D’IVOIRE)

Abstract

Pregnancy is a period during which women are submitted to several prohibitions and prescriptions. Inherent in all cultures, these dispositions are often a set of beliefs, myths and medical standards transmitted from generation to generation. They predetermine behaviour and respond to multiple challenges. This study highlights the issues related to behavioural and dietary restrictions in pregnancy monitoring in the Agni N'Dénian rural environment. Using an observation checklist and interview guide, we interviewed a sample of 37 people using the technique of reasoned choice. The analysis of the results shows that dietary and behavioural prescriptions addressed to pregnant women respond to several challenges, mainly aesthetic (ensuring the prettiness to the unborn child), vital (fight against maternal and child mortality) and preventive (prevent diseases).