Why Do We Need Postpartum Care?
In the United States, the term "postpartum" typically refers to the 6-8 weeks following childbirth, a period marked by physical healing and adjustment to life with a newborn. While this time can be filled with love and joy, it's also accompanied by exhaustion, worry, and a lack of guidance for new mothers. Unfortunately, the postpartum period is often overlooked in our healthcare system, with little emphasis placed on the comprehensive care needed to support mothers during this critical time.
52% of pregnancy-related deaths in the United States occur during the postpartum period, within 7 days to 1 year following birth. For Black women those rates are disproportionally higher, they are 3x more likely to die from pregnancy related causes than white women. What’s more startling is that 4 in 5 of these deaths could be prevented with proper aftercare.
Close monitoring of a mother's physical symptoms and well-being during health visits can identify potential complications, such as hemorrhaging or high blood pressure, and significantly reduce the risk of mortality. The postpartum period is often overlooked, yet the statistics paint a clear picture of its importance. Let's delve into some key statistics that underscore the critical need for comprehensive postpartum care.
Mental Health: Up to 80% of mothers experience the baby blues, with symptoms ranging from weepiness to insomnia. Left untreated, these symptoms can escalate into postpartum depression or psychosis, increasing the risk of self-harm or harming the child. Proper postpartum care involves consistently assessing and promoting a mother's mental health, ensuring she receives the necessary support and treatment to navigate this challenging period.
Social Support: A supportive community can significantly impact a mother's stress levels and outlook on parenting. Studies have shown that mothers surrounded by supportive networks experience reduced stress levels and improved mental well-being. Community support can come from healthcare providers, doulas, friends, and family, providing invaluable assistance with breastfeeding, emotional support, and access to resources.
Regrettably, postpartum care is often treated as an afterthought in the United States, with approximately 40% of women not attending a postpartum visit. This neglect leaves mothers without the support they need to navigate the physical, mental, and social challenges of the postpartum period. However, by prioritizing comprehensive postpartum care, we can ensure the long-term well-being of mothers and their families.
Postpartum care is not a luxury—it's a necessity. By meeting mothers' physical, mental, and social needs, we're equipping them to be the best parents possible. It's time to shift our focus from the immediate postnatal period to the comprehensive care needed to support mothers during the critical postpartum period. By providing evidence based compassionate postpartum care, we're not only ensuring the well-being of mothers but also that of their children and families.