Maternal mental health

Healthwatch Suffolk undertook research on maternal mental health experiences in Suffolk. They spoke to 45 parents who had given birth since April 2020 as part of a national Healthwatch England survey exploring support for maternal mental health and experiences of postnatal care. Most respondents were first-time parents, and almost two in five reported experiencing mental health difficulties for the first time during pregnancy. 

The report found that support for maternal mental health was inconsistent. Some respondents praised specialist perinatal mental health services and described feeling well supported and informed throughout pregnancy and recovery. However, many reported that their mental health needs were not routinely discussed, that staff were unaware of their concerns, or that they did not receive enough information about available support. Long waits for mental health services were common, with some people reporting severe impacts on their wellbeing, relationships and ability to bond with their baby while waiting for help. 

Experiences of postnatal care were mixed. Although most respondents received a six to eight-week postnatal check, almost half said their GP did not ask about their mental health at all. Many felt appointments focused largely on the baby's health rather than their own recovery and wellbeing. A recurring theme was that mothers did not feel listened to, particularly when raising concerns about their mental or physical health. Respondents also highlighted the impact of Covid-19 restrictions, with many describing feelings of isolation caused by limits on partner attendance during appointments, labour and postnatal care. 

Healthwatch Suffolk concluded that many parents felt unsupported during pregnancy and after birth, particularly in relation to maternal mental health. Key issues included a lack of discussion about mental wellbeing, insufficient support following birth, poor communication, inconsistent care and the lasting impact of pandemic restrictions. The report highlighted the importance of ensuring mental health is routinely discussed during pregnancy and postnatal checks and that people can access timely support when they need it.