Lived Experiences of Early Postpartum Mood Changes: A Narrative Phenomenological Study from South India

Abstract Background: The early postpartum period is characterized by significant biological, psychological, and social transitions. While postpartum blues are considered common, persistent mood changes may remain unrecognized within routine obstetric care. Understanding women’s lived experiences of early postpartum emotional adjustment is essential for improving maternal mental health integration in postnatal services. Methods: This qualitative study employed a narrative phenomenological design to explore the lived experiences of women who perceived persistent mood changes within 4–8 weeks after delivery. Five postpartum women were recruited through community networks in South India. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted in participants’ households and transcribed verbatim. Descriptive screening using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was performed to contextualize symptom range. Data were analyzed using interpretative narrative phenomenological methods to identify shared themes across cases. Results: Four superordinate themes emerged: (1) emotional turbulence framed as biological normalcy, (2) fragmented sleep as an amplifier of emotional vulnerability, (3) emotional suppression within familial and cultural expectations, and (4) identity reorganization accompanied by maternal ambivalence. Participants frequently normalized distress as hormonal change and reported limited structured inquiry regarding emotional well-being during postnatal visits. Sleep disruption and sociocultural expectations significantly shaped emotional expression. Ambivalence toward identity transition coexisted with strong maternal attachment. Conclusion: Early postpartum mood changes are experienced as complex biopsychosocial processes rather than discrete psychiatric conditions. Emotional distress may remain normalized and underarticulated within clinical settings. Integrating structured emotional screening and culturally sensitive dialogue into routine obstetric care may enhance early identification and support for postpartum women.