Postpartum Guidance Amongst Women Living in the Dominican Republic Batey Communities in Accordance with World Health Organization Recommendations

Abstract

Inadequate or limited postpartum care potentially leads to significant maternal morbidity and mortality. Limited data exists regarding postpartum care among the women living in the DR batey communities. This mixed-method retrospective study assessed postpartum care received by women living in 13 bateyes through 65 structured and open-ended interview questions derived from the recommendations outlined in the 2015 World Health Organization Pregnancy, Childbirth, Postpartum and Newborn Care: A Guide for Essential Practice. Participants (N=57) included women < 24 months postpartum and at least 18 years old. 93.0% (n=53) of participants gave birth in a hospital and 7.0% (n=4) delivered in the bateyes. All participants reported contact with a skilled attendant during or immediately after delivery.  In the immediate postpartum period, 91% of participants received inpatient care for at least 24 hours and 77% received counseling on breastfeeding. 39% were counseled on maternal nutrition. 31.6% were advised to obtain a postpartum follow up appointment and 24% of participants presented within 6 weeks of delivery. These percentages were lower than the 100% recommended by WHO guidelines. Overall, participants did not receive care in accordance with WHO postpartum recommendations. These findings support the need for healthcare reform, education, and advocacy regarding postpartum care which may aid in reducing postpartum complications and maternal mortality.