Complications in the postnatal period for the mother

This chapter discusses physical and psychological morbidity for the mother after childbirth. Commonly the postpartum period is considered to be the 6 weeks following birth, although it is known that some women will experience ongoing health problems that persist beyond this time frame. Poor maternal physical health can have a profound and ongoing impact on the woman's emotional health and the health of the whole family, with the health of the mother being intrinsically linked to the health of her children. The health challenges faced by women following birth can occur in the early postpartum period or may develop and become identifiable in the later weeks and months, either of which can have long-term consequences. This chapter will use these time periods (early and later) to address the most common postnatal health challenges, including known risk factors and evidence-based recommendations for care (where available).