Maternal representations and risk factors for depression in the migration process

Abstract

During pregnancy and after childbirth women develop specific representations, expectations and fantasies about themselves and their children. Pregnancy involves both physical changes and relational and affective ones. The mother’s role is a culturally transmitted element that conveys values, myths and rules; birth can be considered as a cultural event with unique characteristics. A multi-factorial model is useful for tackling motherhood and depressive symptoms in migrant women, before and after delivery. The aim of this study is to analyse the motherhood experience in migrant women; data were collected, during pregnancy and after delivery, to evaluate maternal representation (IRMAG, IRMAN), family relationship representation (DSSVF) and levels of depression (EPDS). The results of this study show that migration processes could increase vulnerability in new mothers, who feel exhausted, upset and experience feelings of loneliness due to a lack of support from significant figures.