Abstract
Aim: To examine the views and opinions of Sri Lankan women, living in the UK about perinatal mental health (PMH).
Methods: A convergent mixed-method online survey was administered in English and Sinhalese. Sri Lankan women living in the UK, who were from conception to 24 months postpartum were recruited. Standard descriptive statistics presented frequency and distribution and qualitative responses were interpreted via thematic analysis.
Findings: Thirty-four women participated in the survey. Women reported that good PMH was maintained by their partner and family support. Midwives had the highest involvement in inquiring and providing information about PMH. Social stigma was the dominant barrier to accessing support.
Conclusion: Midwives need to ensure that PMH is discussed sensitively with Sri
Lankan women. Future quantitative research needs to examine if existing tools are culturally sensitive and qualitative research needs to include partners and families to
explore how best to care for this population.
Methods: A convergent mixed-method online survey was administered in English and Sinhalese. Sri Lankan women living in the UK, who were from conception to 24 months postpartum were recruited. Standard descriptive statistics presented frequency and distribution and qualitative responses were interpreted via thematic analysis.
Findings: Thirty-four women participated in the survey. Women reported that good PMH was maintained by their partner and family support. Midwives had the highest involvement in inquiring and providing information about PMH. Social stigma was the dominant barrier to accessing support.
Conclusion: Midwives need to ensure that PMH is discussed sensitively with Sri
Lankan women. Future quantitative research needs to examine if existing tools are culturally sensitive and qualitative research needs to include partners and families to
explore how best to care for this population.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Journal | British Journal of Midwifery |
| Volume | 31 |
| Issue number | 4 |
| Early online date | 2 Apr 2023 |
| Publication status | E-pub ahead of print - 2 Apr 2023 |
Keywords
- Perinatal
- Mental Health
- Sri Lankan Women
- South Asian
- Migrant
- Healthcare
