Pediatria pre prax 3/2017

Midwifery care of women in puerperium with postpartum depression

Postpartum depression is one of serious diseases that affect health both of the woman and the child but also functioning of the entire family. In practice, this disease is, paradoxically, often diagnosed late and its treatment is complex and incomprehensive. The authors present a case study of severe postpartum depression after giving birth when a woman had to be hospitalized in the department of psychiatry. The family had to look after the newborn at home. The aim of this case report is to draw attention to diseases such as postpartum depression and noticing broader context connected with the disease and the treatment. The authors stress the importance to developing community midwifery care for women after childbirth and also of closer cooperation with pediatricians and other health professionals.

Keywords: postpartum depression, midwife, care of woman in puerperium, care of newborn, community care