A survey of actual usage of stay-type postpartum care facilities and mother's difficulties while staying in postpartum care facilities in Tokyo

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to reveal the characteristics of mothers who used stay-type postnatal care facilities, usage situation, reasons for use. In addition, to reveal the difficult situations that postpartum mothers experienced when they used stay-type postpartum care facilities. Methods This study surveyed users of stay-type postpartum care facilities in Tokyo who consented to the research. Data included mother's socio-demographics and responses to open-ended questions about situations that were difficult during their postpartum period. Data were analyzed using simple aggregation; open-ended responses were categorized using content analysis. Results From the 9 facilities queried, 111 questionnaires were returned during the one-month of data collection. Mother's ages ranged from 35 to 39 and the mode was 39 (35.1%), indicating that most were older mothers. The most common length of stay was less than one week after delivery by 39 (35.1%) of mothers. Mother's stay difficulties were sorted into 9 categories: (1) Situation of sleep deprivation due to frequent breastfeeding and baby crying; (2) Situation of caring for infant with physiological pain and distress after childbirth; (3) Breastfeeding situation that are not ideal; (4) Situation of dissonance with family due to changes in family roles; (5) Situation with vague anxiety and loneliness; (6) Situation of unclear judgment on the growth, development and physical condition of infant; (7) Situation that require self-judgment and response to childcare that goes against the image; (8) Situation of self-loathing by comparing self with others; (9) Situation of worries about returning to work and financial matters. Conclusions In recent years, the number of older women giving births, high-risk births, and painless births (epidural anesthesia) has increased, and it takes time to recover after delivery. Therefore, a postnatal care facility is necessary as a place for infant-care education according to the physical condition of the mother and the individuality of the baby. Postnatal care facilities that provide care mainly by midwives are expected. Because of necessary to adjust the child-care style according to the physical and mental conditions of the mother, breastfeeding conditions, and the individuality of the child. It is also expected to enhance self-efficacy to prevent mental health problems.