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Maternal Mental Health Hub

Perinatal mental health is the emotional, mental health and well-being of women and their children, partner and families from pregnancy up to one year following birth of child. 

If you have a current or past history of severe mental illness, please inform your GP or midwife once you have found out that you are pregnant so that they can offer you the right level of support.

If you are taking medication for your mental health and become pregnant, it is advisable not to stop taking it abruptly. Please seek guidance from your GP or mental health practitioner, who will discuss with you the benefits of medication in pregnancy and any potential risks in order for you to make an informed choice about your care. 

  • Ask – you should expect to be asked ‘how are you feeling today?’ at every contact with your midwife, health visitor or GP. 
  • Assess – depending upon how you are feeling, you may be offered further screening and asked more questions.
  • Act – your midwife, health visitor or GP will then discuss what your options are for further support and treatment. This will be agreed with you, to make sure you are offered the right care and support for you at that time.