PLANNING THE MONITORING OF PUERPERAL WOMEN IN THE BASIC HEALTH UNIT WITH AN EMPHASIS ON MENTAL HEALTH
Keywords: Primary Health Care; Postpartum Depression; Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS); Puerperium; Mental Health.
This research project, developed within the Professional Master’s Program in Family Health at the Federal University of Cariri (PROFSAÚDE), addresses the qualification of postpartum follow-up in Primary Health Care Units, with an emphasis on mental health. Despite advances in public policies, such as the National Perinatal Mental Health Policy and the Alyne Network, the postpartum period remains marked by vulnerabilities and limited follow-up of women, especially regarding emotional demands. The study proposes the creation of a normative instrument for recording postpartum consultations, incorporating the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), aiming at the early identification of emotional changes and the organization of care. The objectives include developing an instrument to support clinical care, understanding the physical, emotional, and social conditions of postpartum women, identifying gaps in follow-up, and evaluating women’s perceptions of the care received. It is hypothesized that this strategy promotes qualified listening, integral and humanized care, as well as strengthening the support network and the resoluteness of Primary Health Care.