Evaluation of mental health care for postpartum women in primary care: an evaluative study

• Published in: Pensar enfermagem Vol. 28; no. 1; pp. 26 - 32
• Main Authors: Oliveira de Almeida, Milena, Baratieri, Tatiane, de Oliveira Krulikowski, Iria Barbara, Natal, Sónia, Machado Araújo, Marília Daniella, da Silva Melo Malaquias, Tatiana
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 06.02.2024
• ISSN: 0873-8904; 1647-5526
• DOI: 10.56732/pensarenf.v28i1.285

Introduction Pregnancy is a phenomenon laden with emotions in a woman's life, bringing with it numerous hormonal, physical, and psychological changes, culminating in a series of transformations in her body. Objective To evaluate the mental health care provided by primary care professionals to women in the postpartum period. Methods An evaluative study of implementation analysis with a quantitative and qualitative approach, conducted through a multiple case study. Data collection involved the analysis of medical records and semi-structured interviews with 31 postpartum women and 24 healthcare professionals. In the quantitative analysis, the degree of implementation was assessed (classification: satisfactory, partial, incipient, and critical) determined by the Analysis and Judgment Matrix composed of the dimensions “management” and “execution”, and their respective sub-dimensions. Qualitative analysis occurred through content analysis. Results Through quantitative data, an incipient degree was observed in cases 1 and 3, and a critical implementation degree in case 2. In the application criterion of the scale for postpartum depression diagnosis, all cases scored zero. Considering the content of the statements, they can be grouped into two categories: the presence of feelings of abandonment and sadness in postpartum women, and the lack of assistance from healthcare professionals to postpartum women. Conclusion It is concluded that women have postpartum health needs related to mental health; however, there is a lack of assistance from primary care professionals.