Edukasi Perinatal Mental Health pada Kelas Kader Kesehatan

Abstract

Pregnancy and the transition to parenthood involve significant biological and psychosocial changes that are often associated with increased symptoms of anxiety, depression, and discomfort. Mental health problems during the perinatal period can affect the well-being of the mother as well as the physical, psychological, mental, emotional, and behavioral development of the baby (McLeish, Ayers and McCourt, 2023). Anxiety and depression during the perinatal period are common, affecting approximately one in ten women in high-income countries and one in five women in low- and middle-income countries, highlighting the global importance of support for perinatal mental health (World Health Organization, 2022).

This activity aimed to provide information and education related to perinatal mental health for health cadres. The community service activity was conducted using an educational session method, involving 37 participants consisting of health cadres and the PKMRS team from Rizki Amalia Medika General Hospital, Lendah, Kulon Progo. The participants’ understanding was measured through pre- and post-tests. Based on the results, there was an increase in participants’ knowledge. Participants categorized as having very good understanding increased from 16% to 27%, those in the good category increased from 24% to 40%, while participants in the poor category decreased from 38% to 22%.

Education and empowerment of health cadres are expected to help reduce anxiety experienced by mothers during the perinatal period and to enhance social and emotional support for them.