Nursing Care Provided by Midwives With 5 or More Years of Experience to Postpartum Mothers, Who Have a High Tendency to Suffer From Depression

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to clarify the nursing care provided by midwives with over five years of experience to postpartum women with a high tendency toward depression.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six midwives, and the data were analyzed using qualitative descriptive methods.

Results: Midwives made efforts to identify depressive tendencies by connecting nonverbal cues, physical conditions, behaviors, and information from family members. They built supportive relationships to promote psychological stability and continued child-rearing. Through empathetic listening and stepwise support, they helped postpartum women find meaning in their actions and fostered successful parenting experiences. Care was adjusted to prioritize rest and physical support over technical instruction. Midwives also worked to establish support systems within daily life and continuously improved the quality of care through reflection and learning in clinical practice.

Conclusion: The identified care practices contribute to enhancing midwives’ practical competencies and improving the quality of support for postpartum women with depressive tendencies.