• Ms Amala seeli.M
• Devayani.E
• Charumathi.R
• Aishwarya.M

Background of the study: Dietary practices during the perinatal period are crucial for the health and well-being of both mothers and their infants. In many cultures, specific dietary taboos exist that may affect nutrition, health outcomes, and maternal behaviors during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Despite the significance of these practices, there is limited research examining the knowledge and perceptions surrounding these taboos among perinatal mothers. Understanding the extent of this knowledge is essential for healthcare providers to offer culturally sensitive advice and support that promotes optimal nutrition. This study aims to assess the awareness and understanding of dietary taboos among perinatal mothers, exploring how these beliefs influence their dietary choices and overall health during a critical phase of motherhood Objectives:To assess the level of knowledge on taboos regarding dietary practices among perinatal mothers. To associate the level of knowledge with selected demographic variables among perinatal mothers Materials and method: This cross-Sectional study was conducted in Chettinad hospital, Kelambakkam. A total of 100 pregnant women participated in this study. Data were collected by using self-structured questionnaires. Quantitative research design is used. Results: The research found that 18% of perinatal mothers had inadequate knowledge, 37% had adequate knowledge, and 45% had moderate knowledge. Demographic factors such as age, education, and family type were found to be key determinants of knowledge. The findings suggest that tailored educational interventions are needed to address the knowledge gaps among perinatal mothers and promote optimal nutrition during this critical period. Conclusion: In conclusion, the study highlights significant variations in the knowledge of dietary taboos among perinatal mothers, with a notable portion demonstrating inadequate or moderate understanding. Key demographic factors such as age, educational level, and family structure emerged as strong determinants of knowledge, while occupational status, dietary patterns, and living environment had minimal impact.

Taboos, dietary practices, perinatal mothers, knowledge assessment

"A STUDY TO ASSESS THE KNOWLEDGE REGARDING TABOOS ON DIETARY PRACTICES AMONG PERITNATAL MOTHERS AT CHETTINAD AND RESEARCH INSTITUTE HOSPITAL IN KELAMBAKKAM", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 3, page no.a247-a258, March-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2503032.pdf

"A STUDY TO ASSESS THE KNOWLEDGE REGARDING TABOOS ON DIETARY PRACTICES AMONG PERITNATAL MOTHERS AT CHETTINAD AND RESEARCH INSTITUTE HOSPITAL IN KELAMBAKKAM", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 3, page no. ppa247-a258, March-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2503032.pdf