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Experience of the New Zealand maternity system by a group of Japanese women in one centre

Abstract:

Objective: Birth is a social and cultural event, and giving birth in another country is a challenge for immigrant women. This article explores how some Japanese women experienced pregnancy, labour and birth care in New Zealand. Methods: Thirteen Japanese women who had given birth in New Zealand participated in this study. Nine women were interviewed individually, and four women participated in a subsequent focus group. The conversations were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings: The women had a range of experiences including some dilemmas and conflicts during their pregnancy, birth and postnatal care. This care differed from what they would expect had they given birth in Japan where care is shaped by the distinctly Japanese birth knowledge and culture. The women also experienced language and communication barriers even though they did not have problems with speaking English in their daily lives. Discussion: The Japanese women’s understanding of care in the New Zealand maternity system was influenced by the generally more relaxed image of New Zealand society, and issues emerged as a result of communication difficulties between the women and the care providers. This lack of communication was related to Japanese women’s generally passive attitude, where conflict is avoided in the desire to maintain harmony and not cause offence. Conclusion: When sharing information with Japanese women, care providers need to recognise that immigrant women hold knowledge from a different cultural history and maternity care system. Knowledge of these different cultural approaches to birth will enable better communication and help immigrant women make better informed decisions and receive more appropriate care throughout their childbearing experience in New Zealand.

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Japanese culture, Japanese women, maternity care system, New Zealand