Postpartum is a very critical period for women. This is the timeframe that starts right after childbirth and lasts for about six weeks (Erfina et al.). New mothers are at risk of experiencing postpartum depression, anxiety, baby blues, and even psychosis (Mayo Clinic). Women may know that there is a risk for postpartum issues but, do they know how to recognize symptoms, report concerns, and find resources? This research aims to bring awareness to the resources that are provided for women during the postpartum period. It also aims to answer the question, “What barriers do women of color face when reporting postpartum symptoms to their healthcare providers?”
Postpartum mental health is vital yet often overlooked, it impacts not only new mothers but also their families and communities. The first 12 weeks after childbirth (which is known as the fourth trimester) can be increasingly overwhelming for mothers to deal with hormonal changes along with constantly caring for their newborns (Australia, 2023). Many new mothers struggle with mood swings, difficulty sleeping, difficulty bonding with their baby, or harmful thoughts (National Institute of Mental Health, 2023). These are all symptoms of postpartum depression (PPD). Women also face physical and lifestyle changes during this period. It is important that family members, friends, and healthcare providers are able to recognize the signs when new moms are not able to. We also will be focusing on women of color, and how this population is affected by postpartum challenges.
Nazyra Bradley is currently a senior at Salem College. She is majoring in Sociology with a concentration in Criminology, along with a minor in Public Health. She is passionate about supporting her community, pushing for equity and equality, and the promotion of public safety.
Dicie Perales is a junior at Salem College. She is majoring in communication, Communications, and Media with two minors in Professional Writing and Public Health. She hopes that she can use what she has learned here at Salem to lead fellow soldiers in the United States army as an Officer once she graduates.
T’sharri Stoddard is a native of Winston-Salem, NC where she attended West Forsyth High School. After she graduated, she went into the workforce working in child care until 2021. After receiving news that she was pregnant with her first child, she became a Stay At Home Mom. T’sharri is a wife and mother of two beautiful children. After becoming a mother, she became passionate about helping other mothers with wanting to provide emotional, physical and informational support to other mothers, before, during and after pregnancy. T’sharri is majoring in Sociology and minoring in Public Health and Nutrition.