Psychosocial adaptation and uptake of maternal health services among migrant women: A scoping review
Issued Date
2026-10-01
Resource Type
ISSN
02666138
eISSN
15323099
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-105043203220
Journal Title
Midwifery
Volume
161
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Midwifery Vol.161 (2026)
Suggested Citation
Wai K.M., Liwanag H.J., Ieiri M.C.A., San K., Xinyu H., Mukhtar A., Phuanukoonnon S., Howard N. Psychosocial adaptation and uptake of maternal health services among migrant women: A scoping review. Midwifery Vol.161 (2026). doi:10.1016/j.midw.2026.104902 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/117745
Title
Psychosocial adaptation and uptake of maternal health services among migrant women: A scoping review
Corresponding Author(s)
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
Background: Migrant women of reproductive age frequently have lower uptake of maternal healthcare compared to non-migrants, contributing to preventable health disparities. Successful psychosocial adaptation can facilitate access to information, social networks, and culturally sensitive care. While barriers such as language, legal status, finances, and discrimination are well-documented, the role of psychosocial adaptation - how migrant women adjust to new cultural and social environments remains poorly understood. Aim: We aimed to systematically examine the existing literature on psychosocial adaptation and its influence on the uptake of maternal health services among migrant populations. Methods: We conducted a scoping review, including 42 eligible publications of 2307 identified in five databases, and synthesized findings thematically. Findings: We generated seven themes and 19 sub-themes, highlighting that psychosocial adaptation is a multidimensional process, operating at individual, family, community, and structural levels. Although different forms of psychosocial adaptation are associated with improved access to and uptake of maternal healthcare services among migrant women, significant challenges persisted due to financial barriers, insurance limitations, and legal status restrictions. Discussion: Maternal health experiences are shaped by the multidimensional nature of psychosocial adaptation and reflect broader global economic and geopolitical migration patterns. Considering migrant women's unique experiences and needs, participatory approaches that center their voices are critical for designing responsive interventions. Conclusion: By mapping conceptual frameworks, our review shows the importance of integrating psychosocial perspectives into maternal health services to promote culturally sensitive, accessible, and equitable care for migrant women.