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Birth rituals
Traditionally, pregnant Traveller women had no contact with dead bodies and this may still be the case among many.
Initiation ritual/infant baptism
Essential Practice Point 7
Travellers are likely to want to have their child baptised if there is a threat to life. See Roman Catholic section for details of this practice.
(Return to Summary of Essential Practice Points)
Foetal, infant and child death
- Miscarried foetuses and stillbirths are treated according to Roman Catholic teaching. Children usually receive a full funeral.
- Parents may need time and space to mourn with the child and this needs to be accommodated.
- Due to the literacy levels among some Travellers, issues of organ retention need to be carefully explained so there is proper consent.
