Arab-American beliefs regarding pregnancy and birth

The above subject is what I am currently reading about and gathering information on for my antepartum class. We actually have four different culture groups that we are learning about as part of our nutrition section, but we are allowed to work in groups to divide up the research and info gathering. Our group will then compile all of our information into one large table to share with one another.

Did you know?

-- Midwifery is held in high regard among Arab-Americans?

-- "Shahadah" is a declaration of faith that is whispered into the ear of the newborn? This needs to be done as soon as possible after the birth. (I have witnessed this several times.)

-- Arab-American women have a very high rate of lactose intolerance, and also are Vitamin D deficient? (Due to the lactose intolerance and the conservative dress that women follow.)