ScholarWorks@경상국립대학교

초록

Objectives: This study explored the postpartum care experiences of undocumented Vietnamese immigrant mothers living in Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea, and identified the keyaspects of their adaptation to structural and cultural constraints. Methods: A qualitative phenomenological approach using Colaizzi’s method was employed. In-depth interviews were conducted with seven undocumented Vietnamese mothers who had given birth within the past year. Data were analyzed through Colaizzi’s seven-step procedure. Results: Five categories and ten subcategories were identified. Participants faced major barriers to postpartum healthcare due to lack of insurance and restricted access to services. The absence of family and social support led to physical exhaustion, emotional isolation, and delayed recovery. Language and cultural barriers, together with economic hardships, resulted in fragmented communication, limited understanding of medical information, and forced mothers to prioritize livelihoods over their health needs. Despite these challenges, strong maternal responsibility and resilience supported children’s adaptationand future-oriented aspirations. Conclusions: Participants faced multiple barriers to healthcare access stemming from language and cultural differences, economic hardship, and insecure legal status. These challenges reflect structural vulnerabilities and highlight the need for maternal health policies and clinical interventions—such as medical interpretation and culturally competent care—to reduce communication gaps and improve care.

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