Postpartum Mental Health Flashcards
(44 cards)
When does the taking in phase occur? how long does it last?
immediately after birth, lasting 24-48 hours
how do moms feel in the taking in phase? (3)
- overwhelmed
- focused on herself
- wants to talk about birth & it replays in her mind to process it
Should the nurse teach moms in the taking in phase?
no, they are not yet receptive to learning
if there needs to be teaching, keep it short, realistic & supportive
What does the mom need during the taking in phase?
support from others
What is the nurses role during the taking in phase? (3)
- assisting with newborn care
- assisting with self-care for the mom
- keep any teaching short, realistic & supportive
what is key during the taking in phase?
patience, esp if it is her first baby
when does the taking hold phase occur?
usually around day 2 after birth, may take longer
How is the mom acting during the taking hold phase? (3)
- Begins adjusting to motherhood and accepting the new reality
- Starts focusing on baby and self-care.
- Mom is full of questions like “is this normal?” and will need guidance
Should the nurse teach moms during the taking hold phase?
yes, this is the most ideal time for teaching & is where most teaching will take place
when does the letting go phase occur?
usually after the first month, often by 6 week checkup
how is mom acting/feeling during letting go phase? (3)
- fully assumes motherhood role
- gains confidence in her identity as a mother
- begins to feel more at ease with the role
what is the nurses role during the letting go phase?
Continue to provide support but more in the background, as mom becomes more independent in her new role.
What is a normal & common part of postpartum adaptation affecting approx 80% of women?
baby blues
where does baby blues occur?
may occur at home or in hospital
list the sx of baby blues (6)
- mood swings
- weepiness
- frustration
- irritability
- disappointment
- sense of being let down by motherhood
what often triggers baby blues?
hormonal shifts, particularly the rapid drop in estrogen and progesterone after delivery
when/how does baby blues usually resolve?
Usually resolves in 10-14 days without treatment
what is the nurses role during baby blues?
Important to reassure mothers that baby blues are normal and part of the transition. This helps prevent feelings of inadequacy or guilt.
what is the prevalence of postpartum depression?
Affects 10-20% of women after giving birth
1 in 5 new mothers
what does PPD interfere with?
bonding between mother and baby
how does PPD affect infant development?
There is reduced mother-baby interaction (fewer smiles, cooing, and baby talk) → Less stimulation = developmental delays.
list the risk factors for PPD (6)
- hx of mood disorder
- stressful life events
- unplanned pregnancy
- lack of social support
- complications during pregnancy & delivery
- body image issues
mood disorders during pregnancy = ?
higher likelihood of PPD
List the sx of PPD (6)
- persistent sadness or lack of joy
- disturbances in eating or sleeping
- may have significant anxiety component
- feelings of worthlessness, inadequacy as a mother
- thoughts of hurting self
- may also have OCD componenent
