Challenges and facilitators to perinatal mental healthcare among first-generation migrant women: A qualitative ethnographic study in Flanders, Belgium.

Abstract

Women with a migration background face significant barriers to accessing perinatal mental health support. This study aims to explore the needs, barriers and facilitators regarding perinatal mental health support in women with a first-generation migration background and how they experience support within their own community. We conducted qualitative in-depth face-to-face interviews with mothers who gave birth within 12 months preceding the interview, recruited from an Antwerp maternity ward between August and September 2022. Three midwife researchers conducted interviews at the participants' home, using an interpreter if needed. A midwife researcher with relevant expertise reviewed the final manuscript. Two researchers independently performed qualitative inductive content analysis and constant comparison of audio transcripts using NVIVO. Of the 11 participants, none reported mental health issues at the time of the interview. However, four mothers shared experiences indicative of postnatal depression, highlighting significant challenges such as isolation, language barriers, and a lack of awareness about mental health support. Recurring themes included the importance of professionals taking the time and making efforts to provide accessible information, navigating language barriers, differences in participants' openness toward discussing mental health, the importance of having a close network available for psychological support, and practical aspects inhibiting access. Overall, participants reported a desire for more culturally sensitive care and information about available support. Findings underscore the urgent need for tailored perinatal mental health support that is easy to access, emphasizing awareness and training for professionals, especially midwives, to meet diverse needs. Recognizing this population's variety is essential.