METAPHORICAL CONCEPTUALIZATIONS OF MATERNAL HEALTH IN SELECTED YORUBA ANTEPARTUM SONGS

Abstract

Metaphors play a crucial role in shaping human understanding of abstract concepts by mapping them onto familiar, concrete experiences. In the context of health communication, particularly maternal care, metaphors become a powerful tool for conveying complex information in ways that are culturally significant and relatable. This study aims to examine the metaphorical conceptualizations embedded in selected Yoruba antepartum lyrics and explore how these metaphorical expressions reflect socio-cultural values concerning maternal health. Guided by Lakoff and Johnson’s (2003) Conceptual Metaphor Theory (CMT), the study analyses ten (10) purposively *selected songs sung during antepartum sessions at the Gynecology and Midwifery Department of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta. The study reveals that Yoruba antepartum songs use metaphorical language to effectively communicate maternal health messages, thereby making complex health concepts more accessible and relatable to expectant mothers. The metaphors employed in the songs underscore important health practices like hygiene, nutrition, family planning, and immunization, and also reinforce deeply rooted cultural values and beliefs. Metaphors such as CLEANLINESS IS A WEAPON, PROTEINOUS FOOD IS CARE and HUSBAND AS SEED-BEARER/WIFE AS THE SOIL emphasise the importance of hygiene, nutrition and collaborative roles of spouses in reproduction. The study, therefore, concludes that Yoruba antepartum songs are effective, innovative and culturally sensitive means of promoting maternal health awareness and behaviour, as they blend traditional values and modern health practices.