Psychosocial Problems among Urban Women in Postpar-tum Period- A Qualitative Study in Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu

Abstract

Background: Post-Partum Depression (PPD) is one of the overlooked psychosocial problem among postnatal mothers which is rooted on various personal and social experiences faced The study was carried out with the aim to understand the experiences of postnatal mothers suffering from PPD using qualitative methods. Methods: A qualitative study was done among 20 postnatal mothers in urban area of Kancheepuram district, suffering from PPD according to Edinburgh Postnatal Depression scale. Semi-structured interviews were used to guide the data collection process which was carried out either in their homes or via telephonic calls using in-depth interviews which were recorded and analysed by using thematic analysis. Results: The major themes that were identified were related to Mental Health, Breast feeding, bonding with their child, relationship with partner, family and friends. The major subthemes in mental health were related to body image issues after delivery of the child, paranoia, feeling anxious, exhausted, feeling bad about not being happy about motherhood. Breastfeeding problems experienced were anxiety related to breastfeeding and cluster feeding. Conclusion: Awareness about PPD must be created in the community among every household so that people will become sensitised that a term like that is real and will report the same if noticed among their family members.

Keywords

• Anxiety
• Mental health
• Breastfeeding
• depression
• stress