
Postpartum is a period marked by intense physical and emotional adaptations, signaling the end of pregnancy and the beginning of a phase of great vulnerability in women's health. During this time, complications may arise that compromise quality of life and well-being, requiring appropriate attention and care. Among the most common complications are postpartum hemorrhage, pelvic floor dysfunctions such as urinary and anal incontinence, as well as prolapse and pelvic pain, and psychological disorders like depression and anxiety. These conditions can have a negative impact on quality of life, potentially leading to hospitalization, the use of medications and procedures, as well as affecting daily activities, maternal-infant bonding, and generating a substantial economic impact on individuals and healthcare services.
ObjectivesTo characterize the main postpartum complications and highlight their prevalence.
MethodsThis is a cross-sectional, descriptive study conducted from August 2023 to April 2024. The sample consisted of postpartum women up to one year postpartum, aged 18 years or older, who voluntarily consented to participate in the study by signing the Free and Informed Consent Form (TCLE). Participants who did not express interest in joining the study were excluded. Postpartum complications were self-reported, allowing for a subjective analysis of the complications experienced during this period.
ResultsA total of 61 women were included, with an average age of 29 years and an average of 132 days postpartum. The majority of the women (80.33%) did not experience postpartum complications. Among the participants who reported complications (19.67%), perineal laceration was the most frequent, accounting for 58.33% of cases, followed by postpartum depression and hemorrhage (25%), and infection (8,33%).
ConclusionThe majority of postpartum women did not experience complications. Among the most frequent, perineal laceration stands out. Additionally, complications such as postpartum depression, hemorrhage, and infection were observed. These findings highlight the need for continuous monitoring and early interventions to ensure maternal health and well-being in the postpartum period. A limitation of this study is the use of self-reporting, which may be subject to participants' perception and memory bias.
ImplicationsThe analysis of postpartum complications highlights the prevalence of conditions such as perineal laceration and emphasizes the importance of physical therapy in managing these conditions. The findings indicate that, despite the majority of postpartum women not experiencing complications, a proportion of women report complications that require early intervention.
Conflict of interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Funding: Not applicable.
Ethics committee approval: CAAE: 73714523.8.0000.5149.
Registration: Not applicable.
