Schedules for home visits in the early postpartum period

Abstract BackgroundMaternal complications including psychological and mental health problems and neonatal morbidity have been commonly observed in the postpartum period. Home visits by health professionals or lay supporters in the weeks following the birth may prevent health problems from becoming chronic with long‐term effects on women, their babies, and their families. ObjectivesTo assess outcomes for women and babies of different home‐visiting schedules during the early postpartum period. The review focuses on the frequency of home visits, the duration (when visits ended) and intensity, and on different types of home‐visiting interventions. Search methodsWe searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (28 January 2013) and reference lists of retrieved articles. Selection criteriaRandomised controlled trials (RCTs) (including cluster‐RCTs) comparing different types of home‐visiting interventions enrolling participants in the early postpartum period (up to 42 days after birth). We excluded studies in which women were enrolled and received an intervention during the antenatal period (even if the intervention continued into the postnatal period) and studies recruiting only women from specific high‐risk groups. (e.g. women with alcohol or drug problems). Data collection and analysisStudy eligibility was assessed by at least two review authors. Data extraction and assessment of risk of bias were carried out independently by at least two revi...
Source: Evidence-Based Child Health: A Cochrane Review Journal - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Intervention Review Source Type: research