Women's perceptions of fatigue during pregnancy and postpartum: the impact of length of hospital stay.

Women's experiences during late pregnancy and the early postpartum period were examined relative to time of discharge from the hospital. Women who were discharged in 3 days or sooner were compared to women who were discharged after 3 days or sooner were compared to women who were discharged after 3 days, with respect to fatigue. A rest and activity questionnaire was completed by the women in the third trimester of pregnancy, in postpartum Week 1, and in postpartum Week 4. Few differences were found with respect to hours slept, number of sleep interruptions, perceptions of tiredness, and impact of tiredness on daily life; tiredness was a major aspect of women's experience, regardless of how long they stayed in hospital. The information will help nurses preparing women for their late pregnancy and postpartum experiences and will ease the concern of those who believe women will be more tired if they leave hospital soon after birth.