Childbirth preparation and postpartum period from the perspective of women who have given birth

Abstract

Introduction: The psycho-emotional state of women who have given birth is a crucial component of their overall health status, which directly depends on the timely care provided and their satisfaction with it. Preparation for childbirth and the postpartum period is often focused on the physical aspect of the process, but emotional support and the provision of information remain not fully studied.

Aim: Analysis of the perceptions, sources of information, and level of preparedness of women regarding childbirth and the postpartum period.

Materials and Methods: The following methods were used: a sociological method, by anonymously and voluntarily surveying 76 women; a statistical method, applied throughout the result analysis in the conducted study; and a documentary method, as literary sources examining the subject of this study were analyzed.

Results: According to the respondents' answers, 94.7% consider it important to receive additional information during pregnancy. The most common forms of preparation include familiarization with the childbirth process (88.2%), breastfeeding training (82.9%), and choosing a medical team (76.3%). The main sources of information are social media (75%) and parenting schools (56.6%). At the maternity ward, 51.3% did not receive sufficient support for breastfeeding. After childbirth, 60.5% reported having experienced anxiety, and 63.2% reported irritability. Only 5.3% sought professional psychological support.

Conclusion:

• The study shows a significant need for accessible and structured information.

• A woman's psycho-emotional well-being remains a key but often overlooked element.

• More systematic support is needed during the labor and postpartum period.

• Educating expectant mothers about the period of childbirth and afterwards would guarantee a sense of security and peace of mind for the woman in her new role as a parent.