North Korean women's reproductive health experience

The Real Story Behind Maternal Health of North Korea

INTRODUCTION

Despite the emphasis on more systematic and high-quality health care services in the maternal period, a high maternal mortality rate in developing countries is still reported. North Korea, one of the closed countries in the world, is no exception. This study aimed to explore the maternal health experiences in North Korea.

METHODOLOGY

Qualitative content analysis suggested by Graneheim and Lundman was used to analyze the data of 10 female North Korean defectors.

RESULTS

Three categories were derived: pregnancy without self-determination rights, a huge gap between the policies on maternal protection and the reality, and discriminatory childbirth and postpartum care. The theme was "perilous existence of maternal health."

DISCUSSION

We highlighted the need for awareness of maternity protection led by health care professionals such as nurses to guarantee Universal Health Coverage as a human right for North Korean women.