Psychological dilemmas and distress among Chinese primiparas during the postpartum transition underlying implicit cultural norms: a phenomenological inquiry

Abstract

Background: Previous research has overlooked the formative influence of cultural beliefs in shaping postpartum postpartum challenges and psychological symptoms. This study aims to examine the challenges faced by primiparous women within the sociocultural context of China. It will enhance understanding of the specific mechanisms through which sociocultural factors impact maternal mental health during the postpartum period. Methods: A descriptive phenomenological study design was used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 primiparas within one year of delivery during July and September 2022. Each conversation lasted between 32 and 56 min. Colaizzi’s seven-step phenomenological approach was utilized for data analysis. Findings: Six themes were identified, including (a) body weakness, pain, and sleep deprivation are highly prevalent during the “zuo yuezi” period; (b) struggling with considerable effort, sacrifice, and obstacles in breastfeeding; (c) helplessness in childcare due to insufficient or unreliable social support; (d) confusion and difficulty in accessing scientific maternal and child health knowledge; (e) frustrating and increasing family conflicts centered on mother and mother-in-law relations; and (f) sticking to work or not can bring significant entanglement to primiparas. Conclusion: Postpartum distress among first-time mothers in China is not solely an individual psychological experience, but rather a complex phenomenon shaped by the interplay between traditional cultural customs and contemporary social transformations. Specifically, within the unique sociocultural context of China, primiparas develop distinct cultural understandings and postpartum behaviors that significantly influence their physical and mental health. This highlights the sociocultural factors contributing to postpartum emotional distress and underscores the need for culturally sensitive interventions tailored to the Chinese context.