Postpartum

Postpartum period (also known as postnatal period) is the period beginning immediately after the birth of a child and extending for about six weeks. It is a critical phase in the lives of mothers and newborns. Most maternal and infant deaths occur during this time. Therefore, health care for the mother and baby in the postpartum period is crucial.

Definition

The postpartum period is the period of time immediately following childbirth. The World Health Organization (WHO) describes the postpartum period as the most critical and yet the most neglected phase in the lives of mothers and babies; most deaths occur during the postpartum period.

Physiology

During the postpartum period, the body undergoes several physiological changes, such as uterine involution, discharge of lochia (post-birth vaginal discharge), and the beginning of the lactation process.

Complications

Complications that can arise during the postpartum period include postpartum bleeding, postpartum depression, postpartum infections, and thromboembolism.

Care

Postpartum care involves managing physical and psychological changes in the woman after childbirth, promoting healthy breastfeeding, monitoring the newborn's health, and family planning.

See also

• Childbirth
• Maternal health
• Infant mortality
• Breastfeeding
• Family planning

References

Postpartum Resources
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