Implementation of Postpartum Care Visits

Abstract

Background of study; The postnatal period, defined here as the period beginning immediately after the birth of the baby and extending up to six weeks (42 days), is a critical time for women, newborns, partners, parents, caregivers and families. Yet, during this period, the burden of maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity remains unacceptably high, and opportunities to increase maternal well-being and to support nurturing newborn care have not been fully utilized.

Aims and scope of paper; This study aims to determine the implementation of postpartum care visits for postpartum mothers provided by midwives and what factors influence its implementation

Methods; The study used mixed methods with sequencial exploratory strategy. The collecting of qualitative data was done by having focus group discussion (FGD) and thorough interviews, while the collecting of quantitative data was conducted by fulfilling questionaires. These activities had been carried out from januari to maret 2025 in Indragiri Hilir Regency. There were 28 midwives who had been involved in FGDs, meanwhile 30 midwives were involved in thorough interviews and 148 midwives took part in fulfilling questionaires.

Result; Postpartum care visits focused solely on general physical examinations and vital signs. Routine counseling focused solely on initial breastfeeding. Midwives also did not implement evidence-based practices in postpartum care. Factors influencing the implementation of postpartum care visits included community culture and a lack of midwives' understanding of postpartum care standards.

Conclusion; Implementation of postpartum visits has not been optimal. Midwives' competence and community behavior influence implementation