P-20 Improving Postpartum quality of life through social support: a cross-sectional study at the Campbellville Health Center
Author(s):
S Taitt-Griffith, K Harmon, R Permual , A Bissoonauth, S Siddiqui , N Philippe, T Iroku Malize
Year of Presentation:
2026
Objective: To assess the association between social support
and quality of life among postpartum mothers attending the
Campbellville Health Center in Guyana.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted over two months among 160 postpartum mothers within six weeks of delivery. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire, the Maternal Postpartum Quality of Life Instrument, and the Postpartum Social Support Questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS and included correlation analysis, analysis of variance, and multiple linear regression to examine relationships between social support and quality of life domains.
Results: Maternal age, years with partner, number of living children, pregnancy planning status, and source of support were significantly associated with several domains of postpartum quality of life (p<0.05). Spousal support accounted for most practical assistance in 60.4% of cases, while family members provided most support during the transition to motherhood (88.7%). Social support factors elucidated 88.4% of the variance in perceived support among postpartum women.
Conclusion: Social support plays a critical role in shaping postpartum quality of life, influencing physical health, emotional wellbeing, and satisfaction with the transition to motherhood. While spousal support is a key determinant of perceived support, extended family support, particularly from mothers, appears to be especially important during the early postpartum transition. Integrating routine assessment of social support into primary health care services may strengthen postpartum care and improve maternal wellbeing in Guyana.