Boletim - Academia Paulista de Psicologia
Print version ISSN 1415-711X
Abstract
MEDINA, Jaqueline; CANAL, Morgana and BORGES, Claudia Daiana. Implications of the meaningful social network for women in the puerperium. Bol. - Acad. Paul. Psicol. [online]. 2023, vol.43, n.104, pp.51-63. Epub Nov 22, 2024. ISSN 1415-711X. https://doi.org/10.5935/2176-3038.20230006.
The period of pregnancy, childbirth and puerperium is a significant moment in the life cycle of human development. Specifically, the puerperium is a phase of many challenges and adaptations of the entire family system, so being able to count on a social support network is a protective factor for the health of the mother and baby. Therefore, this study aimed to understand the implications of the significant social network in the postpartum period of women living in a city in the North of Santa Catarina. For that, the qualitative research was carried out with three women, over 18 years old, who were in the puerperium. As instruments for data collection, a semi-structured interview and the construction of the network map according to the model proposed by Sluzki were used. For data analysis, content analysis was performed according to Ruiz-Olabuénaga. The data showed different experiences in relation to pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium, however, although each participant had a unique experience of this period, some challenges and difficulties were shared. Regarding the significant social network, it was predominantly constituted by family members and friends and the main functions performed by the members were emotional support and material and service help. Faced with the challenges that mark the puerperium, the importance of expanding and strengthening the social support network as a strategy to promote the health of the mother, the baby and the entire family system is highlighted.
Keywords : pregnancy; puerperium; social support; psychology.