Management Strategies Used by Thai Postpartum Women with Maternity Blues

Abstract

Maternity blues is a group of symptoms of mood change in early puerperium.
Woman who experience maternity blues may be at an increased risk for postpartum
depression. The purpose of this study was to explore the management strategies used
by Thai postpartum women with maternity blues. A qualitative method, which
examines subjects that are experiencing postpartum blues. A sample of 20 maternity
blues women during the first 7 day after delivery were recruited and in-depth
interviews were conducted to conclude the thematic and details of management
strategies used by Thai postpartum women with maternity blues by content analysis.
The postpartum women used the strategies to decrease maternity blues symptoms
appropriately. The strategies began when the women perceived the maternity blues
symptoms, and tried to manage their symptoms. The management strategies used
by the participants in this study indicated five themes, which are (1) Vent feelings,
(2) Relaxing activities, (3) Self-encouragement, (4) Finding helps and (5) Information
seeking. The postpartum women with maternity blues needed help by the wise
person. The importance to helping a maternity blues woman through this period is
consistent support from social, especially family members. Furthermore, maternity
blue women tried to manage their symptoms by using a varied of strategies. After
participants used a strategy what follows is a contribution to overcome maternity
blues experience and to enjoy and build support for the role of the mother as well.