Psychosocial care in pregnancy

Psychosocial care in pregnancy.

Family adaptation.

The presence of the newborn in the home calls for a serious adjustment in the family and this starts from pre-natal period.

If the pregnancy is expected, the family adjusts to it easily than when the pregnancy is unplanned for. Most women are delighted even when the pregnancy is unplanned. However, the couples are faced with impending new responsibilities, practical and financial and its effect on their independence. It is a period of great transition especially in the life of the woman which involves not

only major social and economic and emotional changes, but also acquisition of a new identity, new role and skills.

Family relationship is reappraised when the woman gets pregnant. In some cultures, pregnancy involves giving up a job; this leads to reducing of income and she becomes more dependent on her partner. In some, the couples draw closer, while in some it may be the beginning of conflict. It is worse if the pregnancy is unplanned or unwanted. Some women may feel they have lost control of their bodies and this can cause great distress.

In some cases they need helper in the home. They will need to readjust their living structure to meet with the demand of the new baby.

The role of father in antenatal care

A caring and considerate husband plays a great role in the stability of the pregnant woman. It is always good if the husband takes interest in the wife’s well being especially concerning nutrition, rest and recreation; by this he is meeting her psychological needs and by that demonstrating his protective role for her welfare. The discomfort of pregnancy may make her irritable sometimes but the husband should bear with her. Husbands should be encouraged to attend classes on preparation for labour so that he can give his emotional support. The husband should provide for the needs of the woman generally.

Conclusion

Pregnancy is a normal and natural process even though it results in some physiological changes that affect the woman’s life style. Some of the changes are bearable with the support of the Midwives and Doctor. The husband has a great role to play to share out of the burden on the woman physiologically. Proper screening in the antenatal clinic can lead to early detection of abnormal conditions that can hamper the smooth process of pregnancy. Many minor disorders do not require medical treatment if the woman possesses strong coping mechanism. Adequate ante natal care is required for a happy pregnancy experience.