#Japan #Tokyo #Yukari Igarashi #Japan Intercultural Intelligence #Foreign Pregnancy

Understanding the Challenges of Foreign Pregnant Women

For foreign pregnant women and their families, experiencing childbirth in an unfamiliar country brings many challenges. Language barriers, cultural differences, and limited access to information can create a daunting environment for those expecting a baby in Japan. It is common to encounter difficulties in communication with medical institutions, leading to anxiety and uncertainty during the pregnancy and postpartum period.

Japanese hospitals often offer parenting classes; however, these classes are typically conducted in Japanese, making it challenging to cater to foreign participants. As a result, foreign pregnant women may face difficulties in gathering vital information about childbirth procedures, maternal and child health systems, postpartum recovery, and adapting to life with a newborn. Additionally, cultural and social differences can lead to feelings of isolation, and misunderstanding the roles of partners and family members can increase the psychological burden on expectant mothers.

Workshops Addressing Foreign Pregnant Women's Concerns

In response to these pressing issues, the Japan Intercultural Intelligence (JII), a non-profit organization, has organized workshops for foreign pregnant women since 2023. With over 15 participating countries represented in previous sessions, the workshops have received positive feedback, indicating participants feel more confident about childbirth, reduced anxiety, and gained clarity on the supportive roles of their partners. JII has also welcomed participants from health offices in Tokyo and Setagaya Ward to observe the sessions.

The upcoming workshops will be held on October 11 and November 29, 2025, at St. Luke's International University, where participants can engage in discussions, share experiences, and learn in a supportive environment. Utilizing a variety of educational materials and practical parenting products, each session is designed to be informative and engaging.

Spotlight on the Instructor: Professor Yukari Igarashi

Leading these workshops is Professor Yukari Igarashi, a specialist in women’s health and maternity nursing at St. Luke’s International University. With her experience in providing support for foreign women and their families, Professor Igarashi advocates for informative initiatives directed at healthcare professionals. She has supervised the “Support Series for Mom and Baby,” which provides vital resources in twenty languages. Her commitment to intercultural nursing ensures foreign pregnant women feel secure and supported during their childbirth experiences in Japan.

Workshop Details

• - Dates: October 11, 2025 (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM) & November 29, 2025 (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
• - Location: St. Luke’s International University, Omura Memorial Clinical Academic Center, 3-6-2 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
• - Eligibility: Up to 20 foreign pregnant women in their 24th week or later (per session)
• - Participation Fee: 600 JPY per person, 1,000 JPY for a couple
• - Instructor: Professor Yukari Igarashi
• - Application Deadline: One week prior to each session's date
• - Application Link: Register Here
• - Contact: [email protected]

About Japan Intercultural Intelligence (JII)

Founded in 2010, JII is dedicated to promoting cultural coexistence through diversity. Based in Meguro, Tokyo, they aim to empower individuals from different backgrounds and provide essential support through their initiatives. For more information, visit their official website: JII Official Website.