Shinto rituals related to childbirth and child-rearing

To give thanks to the gods for being blessed with a child, a celebration of the arrival of the obi is held on the day of the dog (Inu) in the fifth month of pregnancy. Childbirth is a major event in life, and even in today's world of advanced medical technology, it remains a significant moment for women. The day of the dog was chosen to emulate the dog's belief in fertility and easy childbirth, and because dogs' loud barking is said to ward off evil spirits as they guard the home. Pregnant women wear "Iwata Obi" (sashes) with the hope that their babies will grow as strong as rocks. Prayer is then offered for an easy delivery, with hopes for the safety of the mother and the safe birth of a healthy baby.
When a child is born, various events are held to pray for the child's healthy growth, such as naming, Shichiya (the seventh night of the year), and Okuizome (first meal). Among these, the Hatsumiya Mairi is an important life ritual in which the first visit to the local shrine is made around 100 days after birth (around 30 days in some areas), to offer sincere gratitude to the god and pray for the baby's healthy growth.