The Strangest Traditions and Customs at the Birth of Newborns Around the World

According to SAEDNEWS, citing Bitoteh: Although some childbirth customs—such as throwing newborns from the top of a tall building or eating the placenta—may seem strange and unfamiliar, they are still practiced in some countries. Regardless of their differences, people in these societies welcome newborns with such unusual traditions.

Quarantine of the mother at home in China
This is a Chinese custom known as “zuoyuezi” or “sitting the month,” where the mother is required to stay at home for 30 to 40 days after childbirth. Doctors believe this helps protect the mother’s health and prevent illness. In addition to staying in bed and avoiding leaving the house, she must avoid open windows, air conditioners, and fans.

Throwing newborns from temple roofs in Maharashtra
Some Indians, especially in Maharashtra, perform a dangerous ritual where newborns are dropped from temple roofs as high as 50 feet. The practice, which began 500 years ago, is still carried out in some areas despite efforts to ban it. It is believed to bring health, happiness, courage, and intelligence to the child.

Restricting the mother in Vietnam
In Vietnam, similar to China, the mother is often confined at home, but interestingly, the mother-in-law moves into the son’s house for a month after childbirth to help with childcare and household tasks.

Applying wedding cake on a newborn’s head in Ireland
In Ireland, during baptism ceremonies, a piece of preserved wedding cake from the parents is applied to the baby’s head, symbolizing luck and the cycle of life.

Burying the placenta in African countries
In countries like Nigeria and Ghana, the placenta is treated as the baby’s twin and is buried. A tree is often planted at the burial site.

No touching the ground in Bali, Indonesia
In Bali, it is believed that a newborn’s feet should not touch the ground for 105 days after birth. The baby is constantly carried until a ceremony called Nyabutan marks its first contact with the ground.

Moving mothers away from home in Pakistan (Kailash tribes)
In some traditions, women give birth away from home in separate spaces, as they are considered impure after childbirth. Only doctors are allowed to be present, and men avoid the area entirely.