Sofrimento mental comum no puerpério mediato em gestação de alto risco.

Abstract

Introduction: The gestational period involves profound biopsychosocial changes for women. These, combined with other factors related to the desire for pregnancy, family planning, support network, socioeconomic factors, access to prenatal care and childbirth, and difficulties during the early postpartum period, can lead to mental distress. This confluence can be exacerbated by a high-risk pregnancy. Objective: To assess mental distress and associated factors during the early postpartum period. Methods: This is a cross-sectional, quantitative study conducted at a referral maternity hospital in Piauí. Inclusion criteria: women over 18 years of age, in the early postpartum period, with high-risk pregnancies. Exclusion criteria: clinical complications during pregnancy or the postpartum period, and pathologies that impede communication. Data were analyzed using descriptive techniques, standard deviation, chi-square test, and OR, using SPSS. Results and Discussion: 350 interviews were conducted, and a 39.1% prevalence of mental distress was identified among women in the early postpartum period. The variables with statistically significant associations were: occupation, psychiatric history, lack of access to mental health care, and difficulty sleeping. Conclusion: A high prevalence of psychological distress was evidenced, with a notable association with psychiatric history, sleep disorders, and lack of mental health care. Although variables such as violence, prematurity, and breastfeeding difficulties were not statistically significant, they were clinically relevant. The findings reinforce the need for comprehensive and humane care, with professionals trained to identify early signs of mental distress and offer appropriate interventions, such as qualified listening and referral to specialized professionals. The importance of investing in continuing education and the creation of specific protocols for perinatal mental health is reiterated.