ADVERSE SITUATIONS IN THE PUERPERIUM: INTEGRATIVE REVIEW OF EDUCATIONAL NEEDS FOR PROMOTING MATERNAL HEALTH

Abstract

Pregnancy represents a natural process in a woman’s life, widely recognized as the miracle of life. However, after childbirth begins the puerperal period, a phase in which the body and mind undergo an adaptation process to return to their pre-gestational state. During this period, hormonal fluctuations and the challenges related to self-care and newborn care can lead to physical and emotional vulnerability. Objective: To describe, through an integrative literature review, the main adverse situations during the puerperal period. Methodology: The research was conducted in the Virtual Health Library (BVS) between February and August, resulting in 208 articles found, of which 10 met the established inclusion criteria. Results: The main adverse situations faced by women in the puerperium include ineffective communication, incomplete information, feelings of incapacity and insecurity, which may trigger postpartum melancholy, distress, anxiety, baby blues, and postpartum depression (PPD).Conclusion: Health education strategies are essential to promote women’s autonomy, empowerment, and critical capacity during this transition to motherhood. The effective performance of the nursing team is crucial, and the incorporation of integrative and complementary practices contributes to reducing stress and relieving physical and emotional tension.