Is there a common experience? Somali new mothers' childbirth experiences in Norway and the United States.

BACKGROUND: Due to civil war, Somalis immigrants have settled in Norway and the United States. Large families are valued among Somalis and Somali women continue to give birth in their new countries. Research studies have been conducted with Somali immigrant new mothers in Norway and Minnesota, United States to understand perceptions of their childbirth experience.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this qualitative study was to compare the childbirth experiences of Somali immigrant mothers in the United States and Norway to make recommendations to improve health care practice.

DESIGN: This paper presents a comparison of two research studies in order to identify and explain similarities and differences between cross-cultural immigrant populations.

RESULTS: Both studies identified themes related to the importance of family support in the postpartum period, fear of Cesarean delivery, and relationships with nurses. These studies give recommendations for nurses on how to provide culturally sensitive care for Somali new mothers.

CONCLUSIONS: Implications for practice are that nurses should develop trusting relationships with Somali mothers and facilitate cultural and religious practices. Information regarding support resources in the community should be provided to Somali mothers throughout the perinatal period.