Psychological distress among women who gave birth by caesarean section in Kazakhstan

Abstract

Postpartum depression is now recognized as one of the most important social problems. Women with postpartum depression are not able to fully fulfill their duties in relation to the child and fully function in the family. There is much evidence of the harmful effects of maternal depression on child development, cognitive and social functioning. In addition, the risk of relapse increases with each subsequent birth, especially if psychotic symptoms were noted in the structure of the affective state. Having a baby by caesarean section increases the occurrence of postpartum depression and psychological distress. Despite the growing awareness of postpartum depression and psychological distress in Kazakh society, many cases remain undiagnosed. Due to cultural and traditional values, many families do not pay attention or do not take seriously the condition of the mother after childbirth. This factor also has a significant impact on the prevalence of psychological distress. In addition, most women who experience postpartum depression do not actively seek help. This is due to the fear of social stigmatization and specific psychopathological disorders in the form of a variety of somatic symptoms, emotional instability, and difficulties associated with caring for a child. The aim of this research is to analyze the psychological distress and postpartum depression among Kazakh women who gave birth by caesarean section.