Two opposite directions of emotional transformation are present in women after first physiological delivery

Purpose Postnatal emotional transformation (PET) and its broad implications represent significant medical, psychological and social concerns. With the rising occurrences of postnatal emotional disorders, examining the direction of PET has become increasingly important. The purpose of this study is to explore whether PET consistently follows a uniform course or if its directions may vary. All analyses were conducted with dependent variables classified into domains of positive and negative emotions. Design/methodology/approach This was a prospective observational study involving a cohort of women, with no control group or interventions. A total of 92 women completed the study. PET was assessed using four standardised questionnaires, with measurements taken on the third day and during the 13th-week postpartum. Findings Two subgroups of participants were identified: one experiencing adverse PET and the other favourable PET directions. In the adverse PET subgroup, a significant decline in emotional well-being was observed across both domains, whereas the favourable PET subgroup showed a marked improvement. Questionnaire results within the negative and positive emotion domains correlated positively, while correlations between these domains were consistently negative. Originality/value This study provides a fresh perspective on PET by challenging the assumption of its uniform direction. Unlike many studies focused on postnatal depression or specific disorders, this study examines PET as a dynamic process with varying outcomes. The contrasting within and between-domain correlations offer new insights into the interplay of positive and negative emotions postpartum. These findings may inform diagnosis, prognosis and treatment planning for postnatal care.