Postpartum Quality of Life among Women after Vaginal Birth and Cesarean Section

Abstract

Context: Quality of life is a broad multidimensional, and dynamic concept. It influences the performance of the individual in the physical, social, and spiritual aspects of life. Despite the postpartum period being accompanied by many physical, emotional, and social changes in women's health, it is often a neglected aspect of women's health care.
Aim: This study aimed to assess the postpartum quality of life among mothers regardless of their delivery model and assess the difference in life quality at the various modes of delivery.

Methods: A descriptive exploratory cross-sectional study was employed to achieve the aim of this study. A structured interview questionnaire and postpartum quality of life scale that includes assessing four health-related domains that were child care, physical, psychological, and social functioning, were used to achieve the aims of this study.
Results: The study revealed a fair and good quality of life among most of the studied women regardless of their mode of delivery. The quality of life subscales' assessment revealed a non-statistically significant difference between women in various delivery modes in childcare and physical functioning domains. While statistically significant differences were revealed between all groups regarding their physical and social functioning.

Conclusion: The study did not show a clear-cut benefit in favor of any delivery modes regarding postpartum life quality, and the research hypothesis is not fully supported. The study recommended further a longitudinal study to understand the magnitude, trajectory, and underpinning mechanisms of health-related quality of life outcomes following different delivery modes.