Effects of Perinatal Loss on The Behaviour And Emotional Well-Being of Young Mothers in Makueni And Machakos Counties in Lower Eastern Kenya.

Abstract

Research suggests that it is essential to learn more about the context in which bereaved mothers' experiences of perinatal loss take place, as well as their perspectives on these experiences. This study aimed to investigate the effects of perinatal loss on the behaviour and emotional well-being of young mothers in Makueni and Machakos Counties in Lower Eastern Kenya and what interventions were implemented to support them. In Lower Eastern Kenya, the effects of perinatal death among young mothers is an increasing issue that requires attention. The objectives of this study were to assess the impact of perinatal loss on young mothers' behaviour, secondly, to examine the emotional effects of perinatal loss on young mothers' mental well-being, and thirdly, to explore the coping mechanisms employed by young mothers to manage their grief and improve their psychological wellbeing. The study was anchored within the tenets of the Biopsychosocial and Stress and Coping theories, using a cross-sectional survey design as its method. The target population was 65 respondents, with a sample size of 64 respondents. Data for the study was collected using structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews. A pilot study exercise was undertaken to ensure its validity and reliability. The data generated by questionnaires was analyzed descriptively by the use of frequencies, percentages, and means and inferentially by the use of Pearson correlation and regression. Qualitative data from interviews was subjected to content analysis. The study findings revealed that 45% - 50% of the young mothers who had experienced perinatal loss had their behaviors affected. The perinatal loss affected young mothers more emotionally, with 65% indicating depressive symptoms, 58% having high levels of anxiety, and 72% reporting experiencing intense feelings of grief. Finally, adaptive coping mechanisms were utilized by the young mothers after experiencing perinatal loss, with seeking social support at 78%, engaging in self-care coping mechanisms at 62%, participating in religious activities at 59%, and professional counseling at 35%. The study concluded that perinatal loss significantly impacts the psychological well-being of young mothers, necessitating targeted interventions to support them. It recommends enhancing mental health support services, integrating mental health into routine maternal care, educating and training health workers, raising awareness and reducing stigma, developing supportive policies, and promoting self-care and empowerment initiatives. These measures can help mitigate the adverse effects of perinatal loss and improve the psychological well-being of young mothers in Makueni and Machakos Counties.