Postnatal Mothers Research Articles

Prevalence and predictors of episiotomy among puerperal women accessing postnatal care in the Kumasi Metropolis.

This study investigated the prevalence and predictors of episiotomy among puerperal women accessing postnatal care in the Kumasi Metropolis. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1750 postnatal mothers who had spontaneous vaginal using a questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were conducted to show the rate of episiotomy. Chi-square and binary logistic regression analyses were conducted using Jamovi software version 2.5.3. The prevalence of episiotomy among the study population was 49.7% compared to the 10% of all deliveries recommended by World Health Organisation (WHO). Among those who had an episiotomy, 88.5% gave consent, and 77.6% required repairs. In the bivariate analysis educational status, age, perineal tearing, marital status, household monthly income, spontaneous vaginal deliveries and previous episiotomy had a significant association with episiotomy risk. In the multivariate analysis, married women, lower education levels, moderate household incomes, grand multiparous women, spontaneous vaginal delivery (SVD), instrumental deliveries, longer second stages of labour, and attending more antenatal care (ANC) sessions were all associated with a reduced likelihood of episiotomy. Higher one-minute Apgar scores and anemia also lowered the odds. Conversely, hypertensives, women with four or more previous vaginal deliveries, and those with a history of episiotomy were more likely to undergo the procedure. Episiotomies conducted was high, indicating potential overuse compared to WHO's recommendations. Antenatal attendance and timing should be prioritised to improve maternal preparation and outcomes. Policy interventions to reduce unnecessary episiotomies are needed. Midwifery education must also emphasise the importance of respectful maternity care.

Knowledge Regarding Lactation Diet Among Caregivers of Postnatal Mothers in a View to Develop Information Booklet

Background: The role of primary caregiver is crucial in providing care to primigravida mothers in improving health by supporting breastfeeding. According to UNICEF poor nutrition taken by lactating mother is more affecting on infants as well as mothers health. Caregivers are most responsible for provision of postnatal care at hospital and at home too as they used their previous experiences during taking care of postnatal mothers. Food taboos during lactation are stronger than the pregnancy period. According to ministry of family and health welfare it is important to fill the gap between knowledge and practices. The aim of this study is to assess the knowledge and self-reported cultural practices regarding diet during lactation among caregivers with a view of developing information booklet. Methodology: Quantitative research approach is been adopted wherein the non-experimental exploratory research design was used for this study. Approval was taken from IEC, BV (DU) CON, Pune. Non-probability purposive sampling technique was used to collect data from caregivers which was validated from the experts and reliability, pilot study was done to conduct the study. The study was conducted on 200 caregivers of primipara postnatal mothers from selected hospitals of Pune city. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Result: Majority (73%) findings of the caregivers have average knowledge regarding diet during lactation and also it showed significant association between age, religion, relationship with postnatal mother and dietary pattern of postnatal mother. Conclusion: To conclude this study on basis of above findings, the aim of this study is achieved. Hence researcher has developed information booklet to update complete knowledge regarding diet during lactation also myths were discussed with the help of evidences.

Predictors of neonatal hypothermia within six hours of birth and exploring preventive practices among post-natal mothers in Kilimanjaro region: Explanatory sequential mixed method protocol.

Neonatal hypothermia is a worldwide problem that can lead to a high impact on neonatal health outcomes if appropriate thermal care measures are not implemented. Tackling neonatal hypothermia from the time of delivery with appropriate thermal care measures will increase neonatal survival and decrease complications related to hypothermia. The study aims to determine the predictors of neonatal hypothermia within six hours of birth and explore its preventive practices among postnatal mothers. This is a mixed-method sequential explanatory study. The first phase will be a quantitative study with a hospital-based analytical cross-sectional design. 325 neonates and their mothers will be randomly selected through a 4-stage sampling technique. The data will be collected using a structured questionnaire, checklist and documentary review. Descriptive and inferential statistics will be used to analyse the data. The second phase will be a descriptive qualitative study involving postnatal mothers who participated in a quantitative study. The data will be collected via in-depth interviews, and thematic analysis will be used to analyse the data. The findings of quantitative and qualitative studies will be triangulated in the discussion. This study will provide a wide understanding of neonatal hypothermia in the region which will help healthcare providers who are caring for neonates to be informed about the current situation, evaluate the care they provide, and find the best way to adhere to thermal care measures. Moreover, the practices of postnatal mothers will be known, which will help to develop tailored interactions to address this problem.

EFFECTIVENESS OF HYPOPRESSIVE EXERCISES ON POSTNATAL MOTHERS WITH URINARY INCONTINENCE-A PILOT STUDY.

Background: Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunctions can lead to Urinary Incontinence, a condition which often affects women both during pregnancy and after childbirth. As a result of this, certain exercises are recommended during and after pregnancy to prevent and treat this incontinence. Hypopressive Exercise is one of these methods used to prevent Urinary Incontinence. Objective: The purpose of the study is to find the Effectiveness of Hypopressive Exercises on Postnatal Mothers with Urinary Incontinence. Methods: 30 Mothers (between the age group of 25 – 35 years) clinically pre diagnosed with urinary incontinence with PERFECT score were included in the study. with informed consent, the protocol was explained to the subjects. Mothers were given Hypopressive Exercises for 3 sessions per week for 4 weeks. This session lasted between 30 to 40 minutes. The outcome measure of the Exercises was measured using UI – QUID and PERFECT test. Results were tabulated using statistical analysis. Result: The analysis shows that the mothers who underwent Hypopressive exercises have significant reduction in urinary incontinence (p-value) P<0.0001. Conclusion: This study concluded that the mothers underwent Hypopressive exercises have significant reduction in Urinary Incontinence and increase in Pelvic Floor Muscle Strength Implications: The Hypopressive Exercises strengthens the Deep Core Muscles which increases body awareness by training the Pelvic Floor Muscles in women and reduces Urinary Incontinence. These Exercises not only pay attention to maintaining proper body posture and Pelvic Floor Muscles activation. But also had a positive impact on the Quality of Life and reduction of incidents of urine leakage among mothers.

Experiences of mothers receiving male midwives’ assistance during childbirth in Kween District, Uganda

This study explored the perceptions and experiences of mothers who were cared for by male midwives (MMWs) during delivery in Kween District. The study utilized a qualitative phenomenological approach to document responses of participants. Data was collected from three health facilities that had male midwives delivering mothers at the time of the study, and targeted postnatal mothers 18-49 years who had been delivered by a MMW in the last 6 months. Thirty-three mothers participated in the study: 15 in individual in-depth interviews and 18 in three focused group discussions. Collected data were transcribed in word, coded in excel and exported to Atlas.t 7 for analysis. Thematic and content analysis were utilized to derive insights from the data collected. The results showed that perceptions varied significantly across participants. Respondents attached certain beliefs and perceptions that the delivery process is an intimate matter that should only be handled by fellow women. Fear and discomfort when touched by a MMW and discomfort by mothers’ partners, came out as strong viewpoints. However, there were strong experiences that MMWs demonstrated supportive, caring, respectful, sympathetic and passionate provision of care. These findings agree with several other studies reviewed during the study. Comprehensive sensitization focused on promoting the utilization of skilled birth attendants regardless of gender is necessary in reducing maternal mortality.

A descriptive study to assess the knowledge on breast milk bank among postnatal mother's in postnatal ward at Thoothukudi Medical College and Hospital , Thoothukudi.

A quantitative and descriptive research design was chosen to assess the knowledge on breast milk banking among postnatal mother. The study was conducted in postnatal ward at Thoothukudi medical college and hospital, Thoothukudi.The sample comprises of 60 between the age group of 18-45 years of postnatal mother's. The samples were selected by convenient sampling techniques. Knowledge on breast milk bank was assessed by using a self structure questionnaire method

Prevalence of postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder and associated factors among postnatal mothers in West Arsi zone, South West Ethiopia, 2024: a community-based cross-sectional study.

Up to one-third of women globally experience giving birth as traumatic, which can lead to postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder. Postpartum post-traumatic stress disorders have significant health consequences for the mother, child, and other family members. Although it has tragic health impacts, little is known about this problem in the study area. The study aimed to assess the prevalence of postpartum posttraumatic stress disorder and associated factors among postnatal mothers. A community-based cross-sectional study was employed among 635 mothers in the first year after childbirth by using simple random sampling techniques from March 20 to April 20, 2024 in West Arsi zone, Ethiopia. Face-to-face interviewers administered structured questionnaires that were used to collect the data. The collected data were cleaned, coded, and entered into Epidata and exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences for further analysis. Both bivariate and multivariable analyses were done by using binary logistic regression. Out of 635, 624 postnatal mothers participated in the study, for a response rate of 98.27%. The prevalence of postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder was 21.60% (95% CI: 18.40%, 24.87%). Primiparous mothers (AOR = 2.26, 95% CI: 1.38, 3.70), have no antenatal care follow-up (AOR = 2.48, 95% CI: 1.47, 4.20), cesarean section delivery (AOR = 2.86, 95% CI: 1.50, 5.61), instrumental delivery (AOR = 3.06, 95% CI: 1.75, 5.34), maternal morbidity (AOR = 2.94, 95% CI: 1.71, 5.05), and postpartum intimate partner violence (AOR = 7.43, 95% CI: 4.53, 12.20) were the identified factors. As identified, one out of five mothers had postpartum posttraumatic stress disorder. Thus, healthcare providers should focus on identified factors like cesarean section and instrumental deliveries while counseling, as this enhances the mothers' psychological readiness. In addition, the West Arsi Zonal Health Office should develop effective strategies to alleviate the problem by focusing on the identified factors.

A Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Educational Package in Terms of Knowledge Regarding Essential New Born Care among Mother in the Postnatal Wards of Selected Hospital, Nadiad

BACKGROUND: The neonatal period, covering the first 28 days of life is a vital stage marked by significant physiological changes and the new borns adjustment to the crucial for the baby’s survival and long term health. Proper new born care is essential in decreasing neonatal illness and death promoting healthy growth and development. Worldwide neonatal mortality is a major public issue, especially in low and middle income nations. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that nearly 2.4 million children die within their first month of life annually, with most of these deaths happening within the first week. Infection are a leading cause of neonatal mortality, responsible for about one-third all neonatal deaths. New born are practically vulnerable to infection due to their underdeveloped immune system. Education on essential new-born care, covering aspects like infection prevention, breastfeeding thermal care, and immunization, plays a critical role in decreasing these fatalities. Postnatal wards offer a special chances to educate mothers about essential new-born care. During this period mothers are typically more open to learning and incorporating new practice that can benefit their infants. Tailored educational programs designed for postnatal mothers of essential new-born care practice and encourage their adoption. AIM This study assess the effectiveness of an educational package design to enhance mothers' knowledge regarding essential new born care in selected hospital in Nadiad. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of an educational package on mothers' knowledge about essential new born care in post natal wards. METHODS A quasi experimental study design was employed. The study include 40 mothers in post natal wards from selected hospital in Nadiad. Participants were divided into two groups: An experimental group receiving the educational package and a control group receiving standard care. Pre-test and post- test knowledge assessments were conducted using a structured questionnaire. INTERVENTION: The educational package comprised informative flip book interactive session focus on essential new born care such as breast feeding, hygiene, immunization and recognizing dangerous sign.RESULTS: The pre-test knowledge scores of both groups were comparable. Post intervention, the group showed a significant increase on knowledge scores compared to the pre- test. Statistical analysis using paired T test revealed that the educational package effectively improved mother’s knowledge of essential new born care (p< 0.05). The educational package significantly enhanced mother’s knowledge regarding essential new born care in post natal wards. Implementing such educational interventions can improve new born health outcomes by empowering mothers which crucial care. Further studies are recommended to assess long term retention of knowledge and its impact on new born health.

Retrospective analysis of volumes of manually expressed colostrum among healthy postnatal mothers at a tertiary care referral unit in South India. Not enough milk or not enough patience?

IntroductionThe volumes of colostrum have been quantified as 5 mL and 25 mL per feed on days 1 and 3, respectively, as per the data described about 20 years ago....

Effectiveness of Drumstick Leaves Soup on Haemoglobin Level Among the Adolescent Girls in Selected Pu Colleges in Bangalore

In Asia India contributed 80% of the antenatal and postnatal mothers died due to an anemia.3 According to the reports of NFHS-3 and the National Nutrition Monitoring Bureau Survey (NNMBS) over 55% of adolescent girls were having anemia that is alarmingly high. The goal of present study is to assess the effectiveness of drumstick leaves soup on hemoglobin levels among the adolescent girls in selected PU college at Bangalore, Karnataka.The true experimental design was adopted for the study. Adolescent girls with frank anemia and border line anemia who are studying in Gangothri PU college of students has taken as the experimental group and as the control group. Non probability purposive sampling technique was used to select the 60 adolescent girls with frank anemia and border line anemia (30 in experimental group and 30 in control group. Regarding effectiveness of drumstick leaves soup, the overall mean score of experimental groups in the pre-test was 11.90 and 14.06 in the post test with enhancement of 2.16 and it was significant at P<0.001% level and the overall mean score of control group in the pre-test was 11.73 and 11.55 in the post with mild enhancement of 0.18 and it was significant at P<0.001% level. Analysis of socio-demographic variables showed that there is no significant association at 5% level (P>0.05) both in experimental group and control group. The findings of this study support the need for nurses to conduct more experiment to increase the hemoglobin level of adolescent girls in selected college at Bangalore district. And had a remarkable increase in hemoglobin level of adolescent girls when compared to their pre-test, prior to the administration of the drumstick leaves soup. And this study shows that the hemoglobin levels of the adolescent girls have been improved in experimental group then the control group after administering the drumstick leaves soup hence the drumstick leaves soup is effective on increasing hemoglobin levels. Thus, the student researcher recommends further studies in these areas to improve the hemoglobin level of adolescent girls.

Knowledge and Awareness About Breastfeeding Among Postnatal Mothers in a Private Medical College

Background: Breastfeeding is essential in any infant’s nutrition and growth. There are various misconceptions and cultural beliefs regarding breastfeeding which can hinder breastfeeding and its continuation by the mothers. Objective: To describe the current level of knowledge and awareness about breastfeeding among postnatal mothers in private medical college. Methods: A Clinic based cross-sectional review was completed in the post-pregnancy ward of Obstetric division of the Saveetha clinical school and medical clinic between June 2021 toAugust 2021. Information were gathered through interview utilizing a semi-organized poll. Datawere went into Microsoft succeed and engaging examination was finished. Results: A very small percentage of postpartum mothers are aware of the significance of avoiding prelacteal feeding, early breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, burping, and breastfeeding on demand. However, more than half of postpartum mothers are aware of the health benefits of breastfeeding, the benefits of colostrum, and the bonding benefits of breastfeeding. Additionally, they are informed about whether mothers with HIV or tuberculosis can breastfeed.

Effectiveness of Tai Chi Exercise on Stress and Postpartum Blues among Postnatal Mothers

Effectiveness of Tai Chi Exercise on Stress and Postpartum Blues among Postnatal Mothers

Knowledge and Practice Regarding Prevention of Puerperal Sepsis among Postnatal Mothers in Selected Areas of Kamrup (M), Assam

Background: Postpartum period or puerperium is the period following childbirth during which the body tissues especially the pelvic organs revert back approximately to the prepregnant state both anatomically and physiologically. Each mother has to adjust the physical changes in her own body due to involution and lactation as well as puerperal complication which may occur. Title of the study: A study to assess the knowledge and practice regarding prevention of puerperal sepsis among postnatal mothers in selected areas of Kamrup (M), Assam. Methodology: A quantitative survey approach was adopted to assess the knowledge and practice regarding prevention of puerperal sepsis among postnatal mothers in selected areas of Kamrup (M), Assam. 81 postnatal mothers were selected using multistage simple random sampling technique from selected areas (Lalganesh, Bank Colony, Adagudam, Sankar Nagar, Kailashpur, Sreebhumi Nagar, Hillview Road, Odalbakra, Gobinda Nagar under Odalbakra MPHC of Dhirenpara zone) Kamrup(M), Assam. A structured interview questionnaire and checklist were used to assess the knowledge and practice of the postnatal mothers regarding prevention of puerperal sepsis

Cultural and social factors associated with generalized anxiety disorder among adolescent mothers during the postpartum period in Malawi: a cross-sectional survey

BackgroundThe postnatal period is an important time for adolescent mothers to regain their health as they adjust to life with their infants. However, it is also a time when mothers are vulnerable to mental health problems. Generalized anxiety disorders (GADs) are among the common mental disorders that can impact mothers. Anxiety disorders can have adverse effects on a child’s cognitive development. However, there is a scarcity of studies pertaining to anxiety disorders among adolescent mothers in Malawi.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted among adolescent postnatal mothers aged ≤ 19 years to establish the prevalence of probable GAD and identify cultural and social factors that influence anxiety in this population. Adolescent mothers were recruited from the Mitundu Rural Hospital catchment area in Lilongwe district, Malawi. A two-stage random sampling method was employed: clinics were randomly selected, and participants were recruited via systematic random sampling. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale was used to assess anxiety. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27.ResultsOf the 395 adolescent mothers who participated, 34% were aged 14–17. The prevalence of probable GAD (GAD-7 ≥ 10) was 31.9%. Increased social support decreased the odds of probable GAD (aOR 0.95, 95% CI: 0.91–0.98, p < 0.001). Experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) increased the likelihood of probable GAD (aOR 4.80, 95% CI: 1.23–18.82, p = 0.02), while those who had contact with a health worker postnatally (aOR 0.38, 95% CI: 0.17–0.83, p = 0.02) and those who were “not prayerful” (aOR, 0.43, 95% CI: 0.21–0.87, p = 0.02) were less likely to report probable GAD.ConclusionsGiven that the prevalence of probable GAD among adolescent mothers in Malawi is higher compared to the global estimates of their peers, policies and guidelines that prioritize the maternal mental health of adolescent mothers in Malawi are required. The findings also highlight the importance of enhancing social support among family and community. Co-designed mental health promotion, prevention, and early interventions to involve health workers and religious leaders are recommended.

Navigating Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges in Suspected Neuromelioidosis: A Comprehensive Case-Report of a Post-natal Mother

Neuromelioidosis, a severe neurological form of melioidosis caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, presents significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This case report describes a 28-year-old post-natal woman with progressive right-sided weakness, facial palsy, and respiratory distress. MRI findings, including the tunnel sign, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis were crucial for diagnosis. Despite initial broad-spectrum antibiotics, targeted treatment with meropenem, ceftazidime, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole led to significant clinical improvement. This case highlights the importance of early recognition and appropriate management of neuromelioidosis to improve patient outcomes.

Early initiation of breastfeeding and associated factors among post-natal mothers in selected healthcare sectors, Rohtas, Bihar

Background: Breastfeeding is the best natural feeding and breast milk is the best milk. The basic food of an infant is the mother’s milk. The study aimed to determine the estimated time of breastfeeding initiation among normal delivery mothers, identify the contribution factor for delayed initiation of breastfeeding among normal delivery mothers, and to find out the association between the selected demographic variables and initiation timing of breastfeeding. Methods: The present study constituted a cross-sectional research design, involving 100 postnatal mothers from selected healthcare centers. A purposive sampling technique was employed to select the participants, and a semi-structured questionnaire was utilized to collect the data. The data was gathered through a self-administered questionnaire. Subsequently, inferential statistics, such as chi-square, were applied to determine the objective and hypothesis of the study. Results: In the research, it was found that 56% of mothers-initiated breastfeeding within the first hour after giving birth. Furthermore, 30% of mothers-initiated breastfeeding between 1 and 24 hours, and 14% initiated breastfeeding 24 hours after giving birth. The study also revealed a categorical association (as determined via chi-square test, p value &lt;0.005) between the timing of breastfeeding and certain socio-demographic factors, such as the occupational status of mothers (χ2=11.65, p value &lt;0.005), their educational level (χ2=17.7, p value &lt;0.005), and the family’s monthly income (χ2=13.7, p value &lt;0.005). Conclusions: Adopting breastfeeding-friendly policies at scale and utilizing monitoring data to increase accountability and improve service delivery can significantly reduce delayed breastfeeding initiation.

Cultural practices and beliefs followed for new born care in Santhal pargana - A cross sectional study.

Newborn care practices and beliefs vary word-wide, country to country and region to region. These care practices play a vital role in morbidity and mortality of newborn. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the newborn care practices and beliefs of newborn care. Data was collected from 429 post-natal mothers, who delivered in selected government hospitals of Santhal parganas, Deoghar, Jharkhand. Convenience sampling technique was used to collect the data from February 2023 to April 2023. Findings of the study are, 86.9% mothers accepted that they massage the baby with oil before bath, 89.3% participants have given breastfeeding within one hour of delivery, 93.7% have given prelacteal feeds to the newborn. Applying Heeng (Asafoetida) over the umbilicus was found a common practice to cure the abdominal pain, 70.8% accepted that they apply ashes or powder or cow dung on the umbilical cord, and 88.3% rub the dough on baby's skin to remove excess hairs, 99.3% mothers had firm belief that hot and cold foods in their diet could harm the baby. In continuation 98.8% believed that tooth eruption is associated with diarrhoea, 95.6% are applying kajal in the eyes of new born. Majority 98.8% believed that baby's skin should be exposed to sunlight in case of jaundice and 94% avoid dressing of new born with yellow clothes. Continuous Health Education programs must be organized in Community to Educate the people about beneficial and harmful newborn care practices, which will help to reduce morbidity and mortality in newborn.

A Descriptive Study to Assess the Knowledge regarding National Maternity Benefits Schemes among Postnatal Mothers at Selected Government Hospital Madhya Pradesh

A Descriptive Study to Assess the Knowledge regarding National Maternity Benefits Schemes among Postnatal Mothers at Selected Government Hospital Madhya Pradesh

A Cross-Sectional Study on Magnitude of Post-Partum Depression and Factors Associated with it among Postnatal Mothers Visiting a Tertiary Care Setting in Mangalore, Karnataka

A Cross-Sectional Study on Magnitude of Post-Partum Depression and Factors Associated with it among Postnatal Mothers Visiting a Tertiary Care Setting in Mangalore, Karnataka

A study to assess the effectiveness of structured teaching program on knowledge regarding kangaroo mother care on low-birth weight infants among post-natal mothers in a selected Hospital at Dehradun

A study to assess the effectiveness of structured teaching program on knowledge regarding kangaroo mother care on low-birth weight infants among post-natal mothers in a selected Hospital at Dehradun