CONFERENCE PROCEEDING
The maternity experiences of Filipino migrant women in Malta
 
More details
Hide details
1
University of Malta, Malta
 
 
Publication date: 2025-10-24
 
 
Eur J Midwifery 2025;9(Supplement 1):A93
 
ABSTRACT
Purpose:
Over the past 50 years, Europe has seen a significant increase in migrant diversity. To ensure equitable access to care, maternity systems must meet the specific needs of pregnant migrants. Despite the feminisation of migration from the Philippines, research on Filipino women’s maternity experiences remain limited, both locally and internationally.

Aims and Objectives:
This study aimed to elicit and understand the maternity experiences of Filipino migrant women in Malta. It had four main objectives: first, to explore Filipino migrant women’s perspectives on the maternity care they received; second, to understand how these women constructed meanings around their maternity experiences. Third, to capture the challenges they encountered during their maternity journey; and fourth, to gain insight into what enhanced their overall experience

Method:
A qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews was adopted, with Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) guiding data analysis. The interview guide addressed the study’s aims and objectives. Nine women were purposively sampled from obstetric wards based on predetermined criteria. Data was transcribed verbatim and analysed using IPA, incorporating Crenshaw's (1991) Theory of Intersectionality to explore the interplay of various factors influencing experiences.

Results:
Three main experiential themes emerged. The first, Malta: A Beacon of Hope, emphasised Filipina migrants’ sense of security, highlighting the value of affordable, high-quality maternity care in Malta. The second, Struggling with Adversity, described the additional challenges faced by migrant women during pregnancy and early motherhood. The third, Silver Linings, revealed how Filipina mothers found strength through adaptation, community, and spiritual connections.

Conclusion:
Crenshaw’s Intersectionality Theory helped examine the roles of ethnicity, socioeconomic status, religion, and societal systems in shaping maternity experiences. Policymakers should improve access to maternity care by offering free, face-to-face antenatal and postnatal classes, fostering community support, and cultural integration. Healthcare providers must receive culturally competent training. Future research should explore diverse ethnic groups and use mixed methods for more comprehensive insights.
eISSN:2585-2906
Journals System - logo
Scroll to top