Women’s Maternal Mental Health Week

Maternal Mental Health Week is an important opportunity to shine a light on how a woman’s mental health can be affected during pregnancy and after giving birth.

Here at EssexPrivateGP, we want to help break down the stigma and encourage open, compassionate conversations about maternal mental health. Whether you’re expecting your first baby or adding to your family, we’re here to guide and support you through what can be a very emotional time.

Below, we’ll take a look at the causes of maternal mental health problems, and what help is available.

What is maternal mental health?

Maternal mental health refers to a woman’s emotional and psychological wellbeing during pregnancy and the year after giving birth. It’s a time of huge transition physically, emotionally, and socially, which can all impact how you feel day to day.

According to the pregnancy and baby charity, Tommy’s, more than 1 in every 10 women and birthing people get postnatal depression within a year of giving birth. New fathers and partners can get postnatal depression too.

For some, these feelings may begin during pregnancy (known as antenatal depression or anxiety), while others may feel fine until a few weeks or months after their baby arrives (postnatal depression or anxiety).

There are also other conditions to be aware of, such as birth-related PTSD, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and perinatal eating disorders. Around 5% of pregnant women have an existing eating disorder, and many experience worsening symptoms during pregnancy or the postpartum period.

Hormonal changes, lack of sleep, birth trauma, or difficulties with feeding and bonding can all contribute to how a new mum feels. Furthermore, having a history of mental health problems, a traumatic birth, or a weak support network can impact negatively.

The most important thing to remember is that you’re not alone, and how you’re feeling is valid.

Support and treatment is available

If you’re struggling with low mood, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or overwhelming feelings during pregnancy or after giving birth, there are several ways to get support. The first step is often speaking to someone you trust like your GP, midwife, or health visitor.

Depending on your symptoms and personal history, treatment options could include:

• Talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or counselling.
• Support groups or peer networks, where you can connect with other parents who understand what you’re going through.
• Medication, especially if your symptoms are moderate to severe and not improving with therapy alone.
• Specialist perinatal mental health services, which are designed to support mums with more complex needs.

The good news is that maternal mental health problems are treatable, and with the right support, recovery is absolutely possible.

Get in touch

If you’re feeling anxious, low, or just not yourself during or after pregnancy, don’t struggle in silence. Our friendly team at EssexPrivateGP offers confidential, judgement-free support to help you navigate this time with the care you deserve. Whatever your symptoms, we will listen to your concerns and can offer effective treatments.

Book an appointment today by calling us on 01277 568562 or by emailing us at: contact@essexprivategp.com.