Psychological Processes of Childbearing

This book discusses the anticipation of pregnancy and parenthood by both parents and looks at the role of the professional during pregnancy. It considers the readjustments to relationships necessary within the family during and after pregnancy and the development and change in relationships between the parents and the parents and the neonate during the first six weeks after birth. The book examines the experience of labour and birth and the reaction of siblings to the newborn child. In addition the book considers the problems of adolescent parenthood and the process of adoption. Finally it considers the complications which can occur during pregnancy, including abortion, prebirth loss, prematurity and illness and stillbirth and perinatal loss. It then looks at postnatal complications such as congenital abnormalities and critical conditions in infancy and postnatal psychological complications including depressive reactions, violence and sexual abuse.