산욕기 산모의 호르몬 변화와 신체·정신건강에 대한 문헌고찰 = Hormonal Changes During the Puerperium and Their Effects on Maternal Physical and Mental Health: A Literature Review

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

This study aimed to conduct an integrative literature review to examine the relationships between hormonal changes during the puerperium and maternal physical recovery and mental health. Academic articles published between January 2010 and June 2025 were collected and analyzed using Google Scholar and university library databases. The hormones examined included estrogen, progesterone, oxytocin, prolactin, cortisol, and insulin, with a focus on their associations with physiological recovery and mental health during the postpartum period. The review findings indicated that the abrupt decline in estrogen and progesterone immediately after childbirth has been consistently discussed in relation to physical discomfort and emotional instability, and has been suggested as a contributing factor to postpartum depressive symptoms. In contrast, oxytocin and prolactin were closely associated with breastfeeding, and increased secretion during lactation was suggested to have positive effects on maternal emotional stability and mother-infant bonding. Changes in cortisol levels during the puerperium were discussed in relation to stress responses and emotional regulation, while alterations in insulin sensitivity were reported as important factors associated with postpartum metabolic recovery. In conclusion, hormonal changes during the puerperium should be understood as key factors closely related to both physical recovery and psychological adaptation rather than as isolated physiological processes. The findings of this integrative review highlight the importance of a comprehensive postpartum care approach that incorporates emotional support and breastfeeding guidance based on an understanding of hormonal changes. This study may serve as foundational evidence for the development of postpartum care programs and maternal health policies.