Exploring Gaps in Postpartum Care in the UAE: Insights from Clinicians and the Public

Background: While the UAE has achieved remarkable progress in reducing maternal mortality, postpartum morbidity and women’s long-term recovery remain underrepresented in national surveillance and policy. Objective: This study aimed to identify unaddressed postpartum health issues and assess public and physician perspectives on the demand for enhanced postpartum care services in the UAE. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a cross-sectional survey of 167 participants (70% female) with semi-structured interviews of four obstetricians/gynecologists in a government hospital. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, while interview transcripts underwent thematic analysis. Results: Both data sources revealed significant gaps in postpartum care, particularly regarding pelvic floor dysfunction, mental health screening, contraception counselling, and lactation support. Public respondents expressed limited awareness of formal services but indicated substantial interest in accessible, affordable, and culturally sensitive support—favoring government-supervised models. Physicians emphasized the need for community-based follow-up, partner-inclusive education, and integrated psychosocial care. Conclusion: Findings highlight an urgent need to expand postpartum care in the UAE beyond short hospital stays toward culturally adapted, continuous care models. Policy recommendations include piloting a mixed-service approach that combines midwife-led home visits with a hospital-affiliated postpartum recovery centre “postpartum care hotel”, integrating postpartum morbidity indicators into national surveillance, and ensuring equitable access through government oversight and subsidy mechanisms. Public Health Significance: Addressing these gaps could improve maternal mental health, reduce preventable complications, and set a regional benchmark for holistic, culturally responsive postpartum care.