Culture Competency-Romania

These answers come from a friend of mine from Romania.  What is interesting about her family is that her husband is Polynesian.  So they have a few different cultures in their household.  As I was reading these answers, I also thought how similar her answers would be to mine and how many new mothers in our neighborhood might answer the same.  Just goes to show you that cultures are similar and individuals from different cultures are similar.  Just can't judge someone by their culture.

Who is your support system? Husband, friends, and people at my Church.

Who should not enter your room? I don't mind others coming into my room as long as they knock, so I have a little warning.

Who makes decisions within your family? My husband and myself make decisions together.

Who makes decisions regarding your healthcare? My husband and I make decisions together.

What family members are staying with you at the hospital?
Husband only.

Preferred temperature of food:
Warm.
Ice in water pitcher or mug?
Yes.
Food preferences:
No specific preferences, I eat anything.
Prohibited foods:
None.
Will someone bring you food from home?
Only treats or fruits if allowed by my doctor.

What customs affect the care of your newborn?
(examples: no praise to newborn, particular clothing, naming at later date, etc.)
I don't like people touching my baby unless I invite them to (if someone needs to perform a test or something else, they should let me know first)

Will your newborn be rooming in?
Yes, I absolutele refuse to have my baby go to nursery unless he/she has to go to the NICU.
Do you want your newborn circumcised?
Yes, but that is a personal decision my husband and I will make for each baby as they are born.
If yes, what rituals or special practices will be followed?
No special rituals.

Breast or bottle feeding?
Exclusively breast feeding.
If breastfeeding, is colostrum OK?
Yes.
Will you be pumping?
If I have to, but I prefer not having to pump.
Are pacifiers OK?
I rather not give my baby pacifier.
Will staff or your family assist you in feeding? I will ask for help if I need it, but I rather do it myself.

What healthcare/folk medicine practices will you/do you follow related to after birth or newborn care?
I don't want to be "pushed" into immunizing my baby right away, or to feed the baby formula if he/she does not gain adequate weght right away.
What religious or spiritual beliefs or customs can we help you with during your stay?
I like to have a peaceful Sunday (my Sabath day), and a Christian service availble if possible.
Is there any care we provide that differs from your customs/beliefs? If so, describe in detail.
I don't like the idea of nurses taking away my baby and giving him/her pacifier and formula in the nursery. I want my baby in my room where I can try to nurse anytime so my milk will come in sooner (if I put the baby to the breast more often, I believe my milk will come in sooner). I do appreciate any help from the nurses such as changing baby/s diaper, since I am still in a lot of pain after giving birth.
Who will help you and your newborn while you are here and at home?
My husband, and maybe a close friend.