The Postpartum Period Chapter 3

Postpartum Period Period after childbirth or delivery About 6 weeks Or until mothers body has completed its adjustment and returned to a nearly prepregnant state Adjustments are physical, emotional and psychological

Physical Adjustments Fatigue Can undermine ones sense of well being And confidence to cope with a new baby and a new family life Loss of sleep Contributes to stress, marital conflict, and impaired decision making Poor quality of sleep Disrupted, fragmented sleep Linked to postpartum depression Hormone production drops

Emotional and Psychological Adjustments Several weeks to long term emotional swings Postpartum blues 70% of new mothers in US 2-3 days after birth, they feel depressed, anxious, and upset May come and go for several months Usually go away after one or two weeks

Emotional and Psychological Adjustments Postpartum depression Major depressive episode Typically 4 weeks after delivery Strong feelings of sadness, anxiety, or despair At least 2 weeks trouble coping with their daily tasks Without treatment, can become worse and last for many months 10-14% of new mothers experience Often do not seek help

Emotional and Psychological Adjustments Postpartum depression risk factors History of depression depression and anxiety during pregnancy Neuroticism - negative state of fear, anxiety, worry, frustration Loss self-esteem Postpartum blues Poor marital relationship, low levels of social support

Emotional and Psychological Adjustments Postpartum depression risk factors Perinatal complications Infant health and temperament Type of delivery Humoral changes History of physical abuse Migrant status Postpartum physical complications

Emotional and Psychological Adjustments Treatment Antidepressant drugs Psychotherapy, especially cognitive therapy Regular exercise

Emotional and Psychological Adjustments Other concerns of postpartum depression Interaction with baby difficulties Care giving activities (feeding, sleep routines, safety practices) Fathers may experience depression, jealousy Study: higher support by fathers was related to a lower incidence of depression in women

Bonding The formation of a physical connection between parents and baby... Early on after birth Research is mixed Seems to be more beneficial/needed for mother than for baby May help with improved integration after leaving the hospital