IMPACT OF MATERNAL AWARENESS DURING CHILDBIRTH ON POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION: A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY IN ATHLETIC WOMEN

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess the effects of childbirth awareness interventions on reducing negative emotional states and the incidence of postpartum depression (PD) among athletic women, who may face unique physical and psychological challenges during the postpartum period. Methods: A prospective analysis was conducted on 161 pregnant women who delivered at our hospital from March 2021 to October 2022. Among these, 74 women received childbirth awareness interventions and formed the research group, while the remaining 87 served as the control group. Key outcomes measured included the duration of postpartum uterine involution, lochia elimination, menstrual recovery, and incidence of PD. Additionally, participants were evaluated using the Self-rating Anxiety/Depression Scale (SAS/SDS), General Self-efficacy Scale (GSES), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) before and after the intervention. Maternal satisfaction was surveyed at discharge. Results: No significant differences were found between the two groups in terms of uterine involution, lochia elimination, and menstrual recovery times (P>0.05). However, the research group exhibited a significantly lower incidence of PD (P<0.05). Post-intervention, the research group also reported lower scores on the SAS/SDS and PSQI, indicating less anxiety, depression, and better sleep quality (P<0.05). Additionally, the GSES scores were improved in the research group, with fewer women scoring in the lower range (1-10) and more scoring in the higher range (21-30) (P<0.05). Maternal satisfaction at discharge was significantly higher in the research group (P<0.05). Conclusions: Implementing childbirth awareness interventions can effectively decrease the occurrence of postpartum depression and enhance overall maternal well-being. These interventions are particularly crucial for athletic women, providing a reliable support system to navigate the challenges of childbirth and early motherhood while maintaining their physical and mental health. Future studies should explore the long-term impacts of such interventions and expand their application to broader athletic and non-athletic populations.