Evolution of Cultural Birth Practices Among Migrant Women: A Qualitative Focus Group Study

Background: Addressing transcultural dimensions is necessary to provide appropriate perinatal care. Immigrant women arriving recently in France often face cultural misunderstandings regarding pregnancy and birth healthcare. Encountering different mothering techniques can also undermine their sense of parental competence. In 2015, we established the "Maternity and Culture" transcultural group in the maternity unit, a space where women exchange knowledge, discuss practices they wish to transmit, and navigate the care recommendations they receive in France. Objective: This qualitative study explores the content and outcomes of these discussion groups. The primary aim is to describe the participants' experiences and the perceived effects of the "Maternity and Culture" sessions. The secondary aim is to identify the cultural competence that can be transferred to other healthcare providers within the maternity unit. Method: Over one year, we conducted focus groups with immigrant women, modeled on the existing discussion sessions. Our research team consisted of clinician-researchers experienced in transcultural practice. We used Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) for data analysis. Results: 45 women participated; most of them were from sub-Saharan Africa and had recently arrived in France. Three meta-themes emerged: Factors alleviating feelings of isolation; Strategies of Cultural Blending and the Evolution of Practices in Migration; Transcultural Competence of Facilitators and Effective Group Factors . Conclusion: These discussion groups function as a temporary "neo-group" that reduces isolation among immigrant women during the perinatal period. Facilitating these sessions demonstrates how cultural competence and knowledge regarding trauma can be effectively transmitted to other professionals, while emphasizing the women's own competence and empowerment. These groups may contribute to the prevention of postpartum depression, trauma, and obstetrical complications.