The egyptian word for mother was the same used for woman. I Egypt mothers were respected more than other women and children could be named by the mother or father. Pregnant women were treated with lots of care and commodities, she was protected with amulets and magic formulas. These formulas contained feathers, honey, herbs, oils, plants and even hair. Prayers were made to Bes, Tanert and the Uadjet eye to keep away bad influences that could put the baby in danger. Bes was asociated with labor and with Isis. The goddes Tanert was the best example of a perfect mother and occupied the first place among the companions for young women and expectant mothers. A certain type of dagger has been found, it is thought that before birth it was put above the women swinging in circles from a rope to protecte the mother and baby from evil powers. Birth often occured outside the house in a mammisi, a garden or if necessary on the house's roof. The women was helped by experimented women who made a type of birthing stool with blocks and recited poems, prayers and songs full of blessings. After labor, the tired mother stayed im home for two weeks being cared by the women, this was done so the mother could de purified again. If labor was succesful a great banquet was done to celebrate, the mother presented herself with a wig decorated with lotus flowers, flower neckalces and bracelets and a white linen, long dress. When the banquet concluded she kept being surprised with gifts and good care. Children were breastfed till they were three. If for any reason the mother could not breastfeed but had the resources to pay, a Wet Nurse was hired. These Wet Nurses were considered part of the family and were highly respected, they breastfed the children for how many time was necessary. Couples who could not have children were able to adopt one, it was considered a blessing from the gods. It was easy to adopt a child and the house's servants were more than willing to have their sons adopted by the masters they served, this would give them the opportunity of being more important and valuable to the family.


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Maternity
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