By Jane Kingsu-Cheng
When it comes to baby care, many Filipino parents are caught between respecting age-old beliefs and modern medical advice grounded in science. From avoiding baths to ward off “pasma”—a common belief that sudden exposure to cold can cause illness—to applying herbal oils for colds, these folk practices have been passed down through generations.
These beliefs have evolved into a cultural ritual that involves sharing wisdom from elders. But are these truly helpful or could they be doing more harm than good?
A wakeup call
Dr. Jayeanne M. Bihag-Lomibao, a 32-year-old board-certified general pediatrician, has encountered various challenges in her practice. “We had a patient where the grandmother refused to bathe the newborn to avoid ‘pasma.' After a few days, the baby was brought to the emergency room due to lethargy and decreased feeding, only to find a brewing umbilical infection.”
The baby was diagnosed with sepsis, admitted to the hospital, given IV antibiotics, and had to undergo multiple tests and procedures—all because of a well-meaning but harmful belief.
Open communication
Dr. Jayeanne emphasizes the importance of respectful communication with her patients. “I strive to communicate effectively with them,” she shares. “By actively listening to their perspectives, I often see a reciprocal engagement. When I present factual information, I make sure to clear up any misunderstandings and back up my advice with scientific evidence to protect the child’s health.”
There are dangers in delaying medical treatment in favor of folk remedies. “Our children, especially newborns, are not just small adults. Infections can progress quickly, vital organs may be affected, and specialized pediatric treatments aren’t always available locally. Prompt medical care is essential.”
But not all traditional remedies can cause harm. “Some practices, like using coconut oil to massage the baby or herbal teas for breastfeeding moms, can provide comfort—so long as they don’t replace necessary medical treatment.”
Strike a balance
Balancing respect for Filipino culture with evidence-based medicine requires sensitivity and an open mind. “It’s important to show parents that everyone involved wants the same thing—the child’s well-being,” Dr. Jayeanne explains. “Recognizing the significance of traditional practices, particularly regarding psychological comfort or minor symptom relief, is an important consideration. At the same time, we work to educate families about the scientific basis of evidence-based medicine in a culturally sensitive manner.”
Many parents find themselves caught between their pediatrician's advice and an elder’s well-meaning insights. “But this worked for your siblings,” is a phrase first-time parents often hear from grandparents, leaving them unsure of whom to follow.
How to handle
Her advice? “It’s understandable to feel torn between honoring tradition and following modern medicine,” Dr. Jayeanne reassures. “It is often helpful to express gratitude to your in-laws for their concern, share your doctor's recommendations, and prioritize the safety and well-being of your child. Ultimately, it is the parents' love that will shape the child's development.”
For parents who are unsure about the safety of certain practices, Dr. Jayeanne recommends discussing these openly with a healthcare provider. Caring for a child doesn't have to be a choice between culture and science. When approached with openness and empathy, it can be both.
To learn more about newborn care myths, click here. For recommendations on health-related baby care myths, click here.
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