Date of Award

2026

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Dr. Nicole Harris

Abstract

The postpartum period is characterized by significant physical, emotional, and occupational changes that can disrupt daily functioning, routines, and role transition into motherhood (Albanese et al., 2020; Baker et al., 2024). These changes impact a mother’s ability to engage in meaningful daily activities, including self-care, infant care, and participation in family and community roles. Despite these challenges, postpartum care often emphasizes infant health, leaving gaps in support for maternal occupational performance, routine development, and environmental adaptation (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2023; World Health Organization [WHO], 2022). Occupational therapy is uniquely positioned to address these needs through its focus on functional performance, role adaptation, and occupational balance; however, its role in postpartum care remains underutilized (American Occupational Therapy Association [AOTA], 2020). This Doctoral Experiential Capstone (DEC) project aimed to address these gaps through the development of an occupational therapy-informed postpartum resource guide implemented within a Women’s Resource Center. A literature review, synthesis of evidence, and informal onsite needs assessment identified key areas of need, including fatigue management, role transition, environmental supports, routine establishment, and engagement in meaningful activities. The resulting guide provides accessible, basic literacy educational materials and practical, occupation-based strategies to support maternal well-being and improve daily functioning during the postpartum period. The guide incorporates evidence-based, client-centered interventions (AOTA, 2020) and emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration with providers such as nurses, lactation consultants, and mental health professionals to support a comprehensive approach to care. By addressing both personal and environmental factors, the project promotes occupational engagement, role satisfaction, and quality of life (Dunn, 2017; Segraves et al., 2023). This work highlights the value of occupational therapy in postpartum care and supports continued advocacy, education, and integration of OT services within maternal health settings.

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