Dr. Abhishek Pasari
Pregnancy and parenting coach, India
Title: Lack of prenatal education among women
Biography
Biography: Dr. Abhishek Pasari
Abstract
Statement of the problem: The first 40 days after childbirth are a critical period for both the mother and the baby as it marks the beginning of a new journey for both of them. Being a new mother can be challenging, as there are many new things to adapt to, including managing the needs of the dependent new born, breastfeeding, hormonal changes, and adjusting to new routines and sleep cycles. These changes can cause a lot of mental and physical discomfort, and many women may experience crying spells and feelings of being overwhelmed. According to NCBI reports, 1 in 7 women develop postpartum depression, and 4 in 5 women experience baby blues. Although baby blues is a temporary phase, if left unresolved, it may lead to postpartum depression, which can harm not only the mother but also the baby. Methodology and findings: To understand the awareness and significance of antenatal classes among pregnant women, a quantitative survey was conducted. The findings of the survey suggested that 85% of women did not undergo any of the ante natal education. Conclusion: With this in mind, it is imperative to empower new mothers with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to navigate during the period immediate after childbirth. Antenatal classes can provide systematic guidance to would-be-parents, helping them to avoid any potential mishaps and raise a happy family. In extreme cases, some women may even feel suicidal or have thoughts of harming their baby. Antenatal classes can provide the support and guidance that new mothers need to prevent such tragic outcomes.