Somali Women, Birth, and Trust: Why Cultural Understanding Saves Lives

Birth Is Cultural Before It Is Clinical

For many Somali women, pregnancy and birth are not medical events alone—they are family-centered, spiritual, and cultural experiences.

In Minnesota hospitals, however, birth is often treated as a strictly clinical process. When providers lack cultural awareness, Somali women may:

Feel disrespected or exposed

Fear medical interventions

Remain silent during pain

Lose trust in the system

Why Silence Is Often Misread

In Somali culture, endurance is strength. Pain may be expressed quietly, not loudly. Unfortunately, silence is often interpreted by providers as “everything is fine.”

This misinterpretation can result in:

  • Missed warning signs
  • Inadequate pain management
  • Emotional harm
  • Increased birth trauma

The Role of Cultural Brokers During Birth

Cultural brokers support Somali women by:

  • Explaining procedures in culturally appropriate ways
  • Advocating for modesty and dignity
  • Supporting informed consent
  • Helping providers understand cultural cues

Their presence can completely change outcomes—for both mother and baby.

How the Fartun Weli Podcast Addresses These Issues

The Fartun Weli Podcast creates space for honest conversations about:

  • Somali birth experiences
  • Fear of C-sections
  • Modesty in care
  • Postpartum healing
  • Trust rebuilding

These conversations help families and providers learn—without blame.