Immigrant Asian Indian Mothers’ Experiences With Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Infant Care in the United States

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of the study was to explore experiences of immigrant Asian Indian women with pregnancy, childbirth, and infant care in the United States. Methodology: This study employed a qualitative descriptive approach using semi-structured interviews and followed COREQ (COnsolidated criteria for REporting Qualitative research) guidelines for reporting qualitative research. Nine immigrant Asian Indian mothers residing in the mid-Atlantic region of the United States participated in the study. Results: Four themes emerged: experiencing cultural differences during the perinatal period in the United States, choosing the best perinatal practices for maternal and infant care, recognizing family as the main support system, and having positive experiences with health care providers. Discussion: Findings of this study shed light on the need for culturally appropriate care, including proper assessment of Asian Indian mothers’ sociocultural aspects and cultural preferences and provision of support and information needed during the perinatal period.

Postnatal experiences of South Asian immigrant women in Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America: a qualitative systematic review protocol

“…Over 40% of SAIW in the UK are more likely to commit suicide in comparison to their Western counterparts 23. In the USA, SAIW also remain at a higher risk for negative maternal and child outcomes in comparison to American-born women 14. SAIW, despite constituting a significant percentage of immigrants to English-speaking countries, continue to face challenges in accessing quality and timely postnatal care.…”

“…South Asians, particularly, make up the largest groups of immigrants in Western nations. In Canada, the United States (USA), and the United Kingdom (UK), South Asians are the biggest minority group 14,21. Births among Indian-born women in Australia have nearly tripled, from 5% in 2007 to 14% in 2017 18,22.…”

“…Though traditional norms are meant to successfully assist women in transitioning to motherhood, immigration often makes participation in cultural activities challenging. 11 In addition to difficulties associated with fulfilling cultural expectations, other factors may impact the postnatal mental health of SAIW, including the role of family, 11,12 relationships with the in-laws, 12,13 gender-specific roles, 11,14 and newborn gender. 11,14,15 Immigration increases hardships for SAIW as they learn to navigate a different health care system with varying values and cultural norms.…”

“…11 In addition to difficulties associated with fulfilling cultural expectations, other factors may impact the postnatal mental health of SAIW, including the role of family, 11,12 relationships with the in-laws, 12,13 gender-specific roles, 11,14 and newborn gender. 11,14,15 Immigration increases hardships for SAIW as they learn to navigate a different health care system with varying values and cultural norms. 7 According to the WHO, a positive postnatal experience involves delivery of postnatal care through a well-resourced health care system, which acknowledges and understands the needs of women and babies, while respecting their cultural context.…”

“…In Canada, the United States (USA), and the United Kingdom (UK), South Asians are the biggest minority group. 14,21 Births among Indian-born women in Australia have nearly tripled, from 5% in 2007 to 14% in 2017. 18,22 Nonetheless, mental health among immigrant women, specifically those of South Asian background, remains overlooked.…”