Difficulties and Strengths of Japanese Single Mothers in Transition to Parenthood: A Qualitative Exploratory Approach

Introduction Globally, the physical, psychosocial, and economic risks faced by single mothers and their children are recognized as social determinants of health and are treated as critical issues requiring consideration in healthcare by nurses and midwives. While considerable research has accumulated in recent years examining the experiences of single mothers during the child-rearing period, but there has been little research exploring the experiences they have during pregnancy and early child-rearing, which are accompanied by extreme endocrinological changes and psychological impacts. Therefore, it is an urgent task to clarify the unique care needs of single mothers during these anticipated challenging periods. Objective This study explored the experiences of single mothers in Japan from pregnancy to early parenting period, identifying the risks and strengths they face during the transition to parenthood. Methods Focus group interviews were conducted with 10 single mothers to collect data on their experiences during pregnancy and early parenting period. Data were analysed using qualitative exploratory content analyses to clarify their risks and strengths. Results From preconception through early parenting, their risks were identified as partnership conflicts within the couple from pre- pregnancy through to child-rearing; physical high risk; psychological high risk; unable to access social support/ social isolation; economic hardships; and microaggressions/stereotypes toward single mothers. On the other hand, their strengths were found out as ability to adjust social relationships to move forward; maternal behaviours to ensure child development; making the most of social support, positivity and resilience gained from living with children. Discussion Women in pregnancy and early child-rearing are originally prone to experience a variety of physiological and psychosocial changes and fluctuations. These findings suggest that single mothers during pregnancy and child-rearing periods should receive appropriate information specific to them, integrated and multi-layered support through macro-level policy measures across perinatal health care, welfare and economy.