Navigating Motherhood Alone: A Qualitative Exploration of Postpartum Experiences Among Women with Labor Migrant Husbands in Nepal

Objective: The postpartum period is a critical phase in a woman’s life, marked by physical, emotional, and social changes. In Nepal, where labor migration is prevalent, many women experience this transformative period without their husbands’ physical presence, who often work abroad to support their families. This study explores the lived experiences of these women, shedding light on the intersection of motherhood, migration, and socio-cultural contexts in Nepal. Methodology: A deductive and inductive qualitative approach was adopted to capture the subjective lived experiences of women with labor migrant husbands during the postpartum period. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 16 participants, and thematic analysis was used to identify patterns, themes, and insights emerging from the data. An interview guide was developed based on the Biopsychosocial Model to explore and gain a deeper understanding of women's postpartum experiences. Results: The findings reveal a myriad of challenges faced by women with labor-migrant husbands during the postpartum period. Four themes were identified: the emotional landscape of motherhood, the struggles of new mothers facing postpartum challenges without spousal support, the power of community: stories of support during the postpartum journey, and coping strategies. Conclusion: While the qualitative approach of this study provided valuable insights into women’s lived experiences, it may not allow for generalization to the population of postpartum women with labor migrant husbands in Nepal. The results of this study further highlight the need for an inquiry into the long-term impacts of spousal absence on maternal mental health and child development.