Postnatal

Background
Postnatal (Latin for 'after birth') is the period beginning immediately after the birth of a child and extending for about six weeks. The period is also known as postpartum period and, less commonly, puerperium.

Biologically, it is the time after birth, a time in which the mother's body, including hormone levels and uterus size, return to prepregnancy conditions. Lochia is post-partum vaginal discharge, containing blood, mucus, and placental tissue.

During the first stages of this period, the newborn also starts his or her adaptation to extrauterine life, the most significant physiological transition until death.

In scientific literature the term is commonly abbreviated to PX. So that 'day P5' should be read as 'the fifth day after birth'.

Woman care
A woman in the Western world who is delivering in a hospital may leave the hospital as early as 6 hours postpartum, though the average for spontaneous vaginal delivery (SVD) is 1-2 days, and the average caesarean section postnatal stay is 3-4 days. During this time bleeding, bowel and bladder function, and baby care are monitored.

Physical
The mother is assessed for tears, and is sutured if necessary. Also, she may suffer from constipation or hemorrhoids, both of which would be managed. The bladder is also assessed for infection, retention and any problems in the muscles.

The major focus of postpartum care is ensuring that the woman is healthy and capable of taking care of her newborn, equipped with all the information she needs about breastfeeding, reproductive health and contraception, and the imminent life adjustment.

Some medical conditions may occur postnatally, such as Sheehan Syndrome.

Psychological
Postnatal depression ("Baby blues") is very common, with approximately 50% of women suffering from it, potentially as early as 24 hours postpartum. It is usually limited in duration, lasting 36 to 48 hours. Apart from empathy and support from caregivers and family, treatment is not required. Approximately 10-20% of women will suffer the symptoms of major depression, and should be treated accordingly. Postpartum depression may be the response to the hormonal changes and life adjustment the woman goes through immediately after childbirth.

Postnatal Psychosis (also known as puerperal psychosis), is a more severe form of mental illness than postpartum depression.

Care provided by a Postpartum Doula will support the mother, assist with breastfeeding and baby care which enhances her confidence, helping to lessen her chances of developing postpartum depression or other postpartum mood disorders.