Emotional and mental wellness during pregnancy
The mental health of individuals and couples preparing for pregnancy can affect their ability to conceive, manage the stresses of pregnancy and transition to parenthood.
It’s important to address emotional and mental health concerns during the preconception period to encourage healthy pregnancies and positive long-term outcomes for families.
People with past or existing mental health issues may face difficulties during and after pregnancy.
A person’s mental health can influence both the pregnancy and their ability to care for a baby. Managing stress and looking after mental wellbeing can lead to better outcomes for both parents and baby.
Talking about mental health
Many women and pregnant people may feel unable to talk about their mental health when expecting, due to fear of stigma or judgement.
A common misunderstanding is that revealing mental health concerns may lead to their baby being taken away. It is essential that professionals working with new parents challenge this misconception, encourage them to seek support and signpost to appropriate services.
Mental health medications
Some medications used for mental health issues may increase the risk of problems during pregnancy, but it’s important not to stop taking them without medical advice:
- 1 in 5 women experience a mental health problem during or after pregnancy
- suicide is the leading cause of maternal death in the first year after childbirth
Messages for professionals to share
- advise women and pregnant people to contact their doctor or midwife as soon as they find out they’re pregnant
- perinatal mental health issues are common and can have serious consequences if not treated - addressing the mental health needs of women and people during and after pregnancy is essential for improving outcomes for both parents and child
- early intervention through screening, support and treatment can prevent long-term negative effects, leading to healthier outcomes
- if anyone you support is feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, advise them to seek help before becoming pregnant
More information and support
The Derby and Derbyshire Emotional Health and Wellbeing website has links and resources for Derby and Derbyshire that are updated regularly.
Community Action Derby is the leading support organisation for Derby’s voluntary sector, helping not-for-profits to thrive and driving positive change across the city.
Derbyshire perinatal service
Those over 12 weeks pregnant, or have given birth in the past 2 years and are registered with a doctor in the city, can self-refer to the perinatal service.
They offer appointments to discuss how someone is feeling and identify the support someone might need moving forward. Whether this is the first time they are feeling this way.
Residents living in Derby or receiving maternity care at University Hospitals Derby and Burton can also access support from a trained Connected peer support volunteer.