In the diploma thesis, I explore the mental health of women during the postpartum period who come from multi-challenged families. Through a literature review, I present the social construct of motherhood in the past and present, as well as describe myths about motherhood. I also discuss the emotional and psychological aspects of childbirth and the support women need during labor. Furthermore, I address the challenges and difficulties that can arise during the postpartum period. In reviewing the issue, I also focus on the aspect of fatherhood and partnership after childbirth. I ultimately concentrate on women who come from families with multiple challenges and the support that is available to them. In the next chapter, I describe my chosen problem and present my five research questions, which provide a framework for the topics of interest that I later investigate. Therefore, in the thesis, I examined women's experiences during childbirth and their stay in the maternity ward; the challenges women faced during the postpartum period; the types of help and support women received during this time; the ways in which women addressed their challenges; and, finally, the potential necessary changes in the childbirth system to ensure better mental health for women during this period. The study is qualitative and the population consists of mothers from families with additional challenges, whose child was two years old or younger at the time of the research. Seven women were included in the study. The research reveals that women's experiences in the maternity ward varied greatly, although significantly negative experiences also emerged. Typically, the partner is the support person during childbirth; however, they may not always provide all the support the woman needs. This is particularly evident in women who had pre-existing difficulties in their relationship before childbirth. The challenges such women face during the postpartum period become even more profound. The study showed that women do not always receive sufficient support from their partners in the first months after childbirth and simultaneously experience a range of negative emotions. The main source of support for women is their immediate family or partner. Some women also mentioned home nursing services as a valuable source of support and assistance. Women mostly tackled their challenges on their own, with only two interviewees seeking professional help. The research revealed an overload on the formal support system, a lack of trust in professionals, and a need for awareness about informal forms of support and community strengthening.
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