Early Postpartum Months Research Articles

Medical and social factors in postpartum depression

SummaryA sample of 55 primigravidae were interviewed during pregnancy and the early postpartum months. Using precise definitions for grades of depressive conditions, 84 per cent reported the blues in hospital. 71 per cent an anxiety state on going home with the baby. 33 per cent a depressed mood and 24 per cent depression with symptoms. Both the blues and depression with symptoms appeared to be associated with certain facets of birth management, while depression was more likely in women who reported little or no previous contact with babies. The mother's current social state was related to a depressed mood. and aspects of social vulnerability made the occurrence of postpartum depression more likely

Sexual adjustment during first pregnancy and post partum

A study of sexual adjustment of 19 primigravidas revealed that pregnancy had a generalized adverse effect. Frequency of coitus, sexual desire, and eroticism declined during the first trimester, relatively increased by the second trimester and early months of the third, but continued to be below the prepregnancy base line. Fear of harming the fetus, absence of sexual stirrings, and somatic factors contributed to this reduction. Customary predelivery abstinence and position difficulties accounted for the curtailment of coitus in the last month of pregnancy. Resumption of sexual activities in the early postpartum months was hampered by tension and fatigue; frequency of coitus continued to be lower at 7 months post partum than before pregnancy. The influence of other factors, such as the woman's characteristic level of sexuality, the role of the husband, and the experience of nursing the infant, and the implications for future research and for patient management are discussed.