Abstract
Background
The postpartum period can be challenging for many women. For migrant women, the arrival
of a new baby brings unique issues. This study aimed to explore the experiences of
motherhood and postpartum support of Indian migrant mothers.
Methods
A qualitative descriptive naturalist inquiry was adopted, with data collected through
face-to-face, semi-structured, in-depth interviews with a purposive sample of 11 English
speaking Indian migrant women over 18 years old, (6 weeks to 6 months postpartum)
in 2016. The data were thematically analysed.
Findings
Four themes were found in this study: the role of social support in postpartum care,
support from health services, a psycho-emotional journey with socio-cultural expectations
and struggling to bridge two cultures. Many of the women felt alone and were distressed
with undertaking household duties and caring for older children, as this would not
have happened in India. The women expressed needing practical support until they settled
back into their normal lives. Women never sought professional advice for their ongoing
mental health concerns. Conflicting advice from health professionals left some women
confused about their expectations of traditional and modern postnatal care.
Conclusion
This study gives a unique insight into the experiences of Indian migrant women following
birth. There is a need for culturally sensitive and appropriate postnatal services
that encourage Indian men to support their partners and help women to find alternative
sources of culturally appropriate support. It is vital that mental health support
is a key component of any such program of care.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: October 18, 2019
Accepted:
September 23,
2019
Received in revised form:
August 16,
2019
Received:
April 11,
2019
Identification
Copyright
© 2019 Australian College of Midwives. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
