Impact of delivery method on postpartum mental health

Introduction: impaired mental health in post partum period could induce problems at communication and social performance. The present study was done in order to determine the influence of delivery method on mental health within postpartum period. Methods: In this cohort study, data were collected by SCL-90-R scale and demographic questionnaire on 227 nulliparous women (113 cesarean section and 114 vaginal delivery) referred to health services centers in Shahr-e-Babak. The subjects were matched for age, education, job, husband's job and education, planning pregnancy, pleasant baby sex, familial support and mental health in terminal trimester during six-week upon delivery. Chi-square, Mann-whiteny and Wilkcaxon tests were used for analysis. Results: The results indicated that mothers who had cesarean delivery had significantly higher scores of mental disorders in post partum period, (P<0.001) as well as in terminal trimester of pregnancy (P<0.001). Conclusion: Cesarean delivery induce psychological outcomes for mothers, infant and family. Appropriate counselling to pregnant women by health-care providers is advised to select proper delivery method.