HEALTH EDUCATION PROGRAM FOR PREGNANT WOMAN ON POSTPARTUM CARE AFTER NORMAL DELIVERIES

Abstract

The post partum period (puerperium ) is the six weeks interval between the birth of the newborn and the return of the reproductive organs to their normal non-pregnant state. The physiological changes that occur during the puerperium are distinctive, although considered normal as the processes of pregnancy are reversed. Adequate education in accordance with the need of women is necessary to enable them to handle changes in the post partum period and to meet these demands. The national maternal mortality rate was 174 maternal death per 100,000 live birth (Ministry of Health, 1993). Self-care assists the mother to be ambulatory, shortly after delivery. Those who ambulate quickly, have fewer bowels, bladder complications and fewer circulatory complications. They feel stronger and healthier by the end of their first week than those who remain in bed during that time. The aim of this study was to: assess mother's knowledge and practice on post partum care, develop health education program to their needs, implement the program, and develop instruction for postpartum care to mothers. The sample consisted of 300 mothers from three villages, namely: Kaum Abo sheel, Arab El- Ateat El- Bharia and Kaum El- Mansora. The sample included two groups, study group composed of 150 mothers from three villages, control group composed. of 150 mothers from the same villages.