"Citing 'Inexperience in Care and Parenting' as a Greater Challenge"
More than 6 out of 10 people who have experienced pregnancy and childbirth reported that the most difficult challenge was their lack of proficiency in parenting and caregiving. Economic difficulties were reported by about 43% of respondents.
According to a survey published in the autumn issue of "The Health" by the Korea Health Promotion Institute (KHEPI) on the 13th, 46.7% of the total 2,768 male and female respondents had experienced pregnancy and childbirth. This survey was conducted through the official Instagram account last August.
Among the respondents, 1,292 (46.7%) had experienced pregnancy and childbirth. When asked about the practical difficulties they faced, 62.8% answered "lack of proficiency in parenting and caregiving." This was followed by "physical changes and abnormal health conditions" (44.5%), "economic difficulties" (42.6%), "mental stress such as depression" (40.4%), and "lack of help and support from spouse and others around" (23.3%).
As for how they overcame these difficulties, 62.3% said they received help from spouses, family, friends, and other acquaintances. On the other hand, 35.9% reported that they endured the difficulties of pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting alone, which is a relatively high figure. Responses indicating that they received help from professionals such as hospitals or public services (government support) were 15.9% each.
Among the 2,768 respondents, the most needed support was care facilities or helpers (32.0%). Providing information related to parenting and caregiving (30.1%) also showed a high response rate. This was followed by work-family balance systems in the workplace (18.3%) and counseling and guidance on health management for pregnant women and infants (15.1%).
How did those who experienced difficulties during pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting resolve them? 61.3% of respondents said they searched or would search online, such as on the internet. Only 17.9% and 5.4% said they would obtain information from professionals at hospitals or public health centers, respectively. The answer "overcame the difficulties of pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting alone" was also a significant 35.9%. Responses indicating that they received help from professionals such as hospitals or government-supported public services were only 15.9% each.
When asked whether they knew how to receive national assistance beyond economic support related to the health of pregnant women and the growth and development of children, 68.5% said they did not know the details but were aware that such systems exist. 9.2% said they did not know anything at all.
Meanwhile, there is a forecast that the total fertility rate, which had dropped to 0.72, will slightly rebound this year for the first time in 10 years.
On the 10th, the National Assembly Budget Office predicted in its "2025 Economic Outlook" report that the total fertility rate this year will be 0.74. The total fertility rate has declined for nine consecutive years since 2015, when it was 1.24, reaching 0.72 last year. Factors contributing to the rebound include the recovery of delayed births due to the COVID-19 pandemic, policy efforts to address low birth rates, and a socially child-rearing-friendly atmosphere.
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