Analysis of variables affecting postpartum quality of life: their relative influence and interrelationships

Abstract

Background: The postpartum period is a time of special vulnerability and unacceptably high morbidity for the mother, which warrants in-depth study. The objective of this study is to analyze the variables affecting quality of life (QoL) during the first six months postpartum, their relative influence, and the relationships between them. Methods: Cross-sectional study with the participation of 289 postpartum women, who answered the digital questionnaires: SF-12 for QoL; EMAeHealth for self-management of health in the postpartum, which assesses: incontinence, sexuality, breastfeeding, adaptation to the maternal role and mental health; and “Prescribe Healthy Life” Screening Questionnaire, which measures diet, exercise and consumption of toxic. To analyze the relationship between the variables and their relative influence on QoL, a structural equation model was built. Results: Depression (β=-0.640; 90%CI: (-0.670)-(-0.505); p = 0.006), partner support (β = 0.331; 90%CI:0.217–0.424; p = 0.003), parental self-efficacy (β = 0.219; 90%CI:0.134–0.309; p = 0.001) and physical QoL (β=-0.223; 90%CI: (-0.294)-(-0.142); p = 0.002) are related to the mental dimension of QoL. Partner support also influences the breastfeeding self-efficacy (β = 0.28; 90%CI:0.197–0.373; p = 0.002), sexual satisfaction (β = 0.48; 90%CI:0.38–0.56; p = 0.03), body dissatisfaction (β=-0.155; 90%CI: (-0.27)-(-0.04); p = 0.031), and parental self-efficacy (β = 0.170; 90%CI:0.027–0.344; p = 0.045), which indirectly affect QoL. Depressive symptoms (β=-0.126; 90%CI: (-0.218)-(-0.026); p = 0.044) and smoking (β=-0.224; 90%CI: (-0.314)-(-0.132); p = 0.002) affect the physical component of QoL. Conclusions: This study explains the influence of the variables involved in QoL after childbirth and their interrelationship, providing a graphical representation that facilitates a comprehensive understanding. This knowledge forces us, as midwives, to review perinatal and postpartum care with the aim of paying special attention to partner support and depressive symptoms.