Pregnancy in Hispanic women.

This article addresses some of the characteristics present among Hispanic women that may influence their course of pregnancy and their health in general.Many Hispanic people in the United States retain the customs and traditions of their country of origin. As a result, their use of preventive health care measures is lower than the majority of the population. Use of screening tests such as breast examinations and Papanicolaou smears are minimal among Hispanic women.Because of the tradition of paternalism among some in the Hispanic population, women are used to being told what to do, and as a result, they are hesitant to participate in their own health care. Physicians should be aware of the cultural differences and beliefs when treating pregnant Hispanic women. If these differences are understood and respected, the patient, in turn, will better respect the physician's opinion and advice.