Postpartum Teaching Choice Proper Postpartum

Postpartum Teaching

Choice

Proper postpartum physical and psychological healing including preventing postpartum depression.

Day One of 7-day course

Within 24 hours of childbirth

Length: One hour

Intended Learner

Thirty-year-old single lawyer who gave birth to her first child within the past 24 hours. The pregnancy and the childbirth were without major complications.

Outline of Teaching Session

Explanation of postpartum physiological issues: what the new mother can expect a. Sore breasts and perineum pain; how to relieve pain without relying on drugs b. Constipation and incontinence; how to address elimination issues c. Hot or cold flashes; the best ways to stay comfortable d. Weight gain; the best ways to lose the mother fat without dieting e. Vaginal discharge; why it occurs and how to deal with it

Explanation of postpartum psychological issues a. Postpartum depression; what it is, how to prevent and treat it without drugs b. Stress; how to manage stress c. Relationship issues; what to expect and how to create harmonious relationships including one with the new baby

Cognitive Objectives

1. The patient will name at least four possible postpartum physiological symptoms and at least three symptoms of postpartum depression.

2. The patient will learn how to breast feed discretely to encourage the practice and will also learn how to massage her breasts to alleviate pain and discomfort.

3. The patient will learn drug-free methods of relieving constipation such as drinking plenty of water, ingesting high-fiber supplements, and eating well.

4. The patient will learn how to accept postpartum discomfort without resorting to drugs that might harm the baby through breast milk such as breathing techniques that help the mother relax, or the use of panty liners to address vaginal discharge and mild incontinence.

5. The patient will commit to a healthy diet that will encourage weight loss without disrupting her natural hunger cycle.

6. The patient will learn to recognize the symptoms of postpartum depression and will rely on a repertoire of healing activities like yoga, exercise, and meditation that will help her avoid the use of antidepressants.

Psychomotor Objectives

1. Patient will breast feed, and will purchase clothing that makes breast feeding easy and discreet.