Postpartum Burnout Among Women of Childbearing Age: A Neglected Global Public Health Problem

Abstract

Euphoric moods characterize the postpartum period, but for many mothers, regardless of economic, social, ethnic, or cultural backgrounds, this period is overshadowed by the negative impact of physical and mental fatigue. This study conducted a comprehensive search across multiple databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, to gather articles reporting associations between various factors and postpartum fatigue. The findings revealed that cultural and social expectations of motherhood, sleep disturbance, partnering, socio-economic disadvantage, pre-existing mental illness, and labor experiences significantly contributed to postpartum fatigue. At the same time, routine exercise and social support systems served as protective factors. By addressing these factors promptly, healthcare providers can enhance the well-being and quality of life of postpartum women and their infants.