Chapter 18: Postpartum Psychosocial Adaptations Flashcards
Postpartum Blues
Mild transient, self-limiting condition**
Postpartum Blues: Timeframe
-Begins in the first week, peaks around day 5 and ends within 2 weeks.
If postpartum blues lasts longer than two weeks,
It may indicate a more serious condition.
Postpartum blues may be a result of:
▪ Emotional letdown that occurs after birth
▪ Postpartum discomforts
▪ Fatigue & anxiety about her ability to care for the infant
▪ Body image concern
What are symptoms of postpartum blues?
FIIT-MA o Fatigue o Irritability o Insomnia o Tearfulness o Mood instability o Anxiety
Nursing Psychosocial Assessment: Postpartum blues
- Although self limiting, mother’s greatly benefit when empathy and support are freely given by health care team and family.
- Because the condition is so common in postpartum women, caregivers or family members may not be as empathetic as they would for a condition deemed more serious.
A mother with postpartum blues should be encouraged to
Rest, take time for herself and discuss her feelings.
Patient Teaching: Postpartum blues
- Reassure that such feelings are normal and generally lasts less than 2 weeks.
- Advise patient and family to call HCP if depression becomes severe or lasts longer than 2 weeks or if she is unable to cope with daily life.
Postpartum blues is NOT R/T
Postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis which are disabling conditions and require therapeutic management for full recovery.
Postpartum depression: Timeframe
- Onset during pregnancy or within 4 weeks after childbirth that lasts at least 2 weeks.
- Usually develops during the first 3 months but may occur any time during the first year postpartum.
What causes postpartum depression?
- More likely in primigravidas
- Cause is unknown
Theories for postpartum depression include
Biochemical
Genetic
Psychosocial Factors
Life stress
Symptoms of Postpartum depression include
o Depressed with loss of interest in usual activities
o Unusual emotional response toward family
o PERSISTENT depressed state; for at least a 2 week period & worsens over time. **
o Intense feelings of anxiety, unworthiness, guilt, agitation, and shame/loss of self
o Generalized: fatigue irritability, c/o ill health
o Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, little interest in food, weight change, recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
Therapeutic Management of Postpartum Depression includes a combination of:
o Psychotherapy
o Social support
o Medication
What are common medications used in postpartum depression?
▪ Serotonin reuptake inhibitors
▪ Tricycline antidepressants
