A theory on intercultural caring in maternity care

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Midwifery
• Sociology

Background:

• Maternity care for immigrant and minority women presents unique challenges.
• Understanding intercultural dynamics is crucial for effective care.
• Existing theories may not fully address the complexities of diverse birthing experiences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and develop a theory on intercultural caring in maternity care.
• To explore the experiences of midwives and immigrant mothers.
• To provide a framework for culturally sensitive maternity services.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative research methodology using hermeneutics.
• Interpretation of previous studies on intercultural maternity care.
• Development of a theory based on identified patterns.

Main Results:

• Five interpretation patterns emerged: power in caring, the constant presence of family, childbearing and migration as vulnerabilities, mutual transformation during intercultural encounters, and conflict as a catalyst for change.
• The theory defines intercultural caring through universal, cultural, contextual, and unique dimensions.
• Intercultural caring was found to alleviate suffering and promote health and well-being.

Conclusions:

• The theory can enhance nursing education by raising awareness of cultural aspects in immigrant maternity care.
• Midwives can use the theory to foster positive childbearing experiences for immigrant and minority mothers, improving well-being and health outcomes.
• This theory uniquely integrates caring, culture, intercultural aspects, and maternity care, contributing to the theory of caritative caring.