Pregnant women not seeking mental health support

The website BabyCentre has conducted an online survey of 1000 UK mothers about their experiences of mental health problems during pregnancy.  They found that 30% of the mothers-to-be frequently experienced five or more key indicators of antenatal depression, such as feeling anxious for no reason, losing interest in day-to-day activities and feeling so unhappy they cry.  This is a far higher rate than the official data around antenatal depression which suggests that between 10% and 15% of women experience depression and anxiety during pregnancy.

The survey indicates that many women are not seeking help from medical professionals for these issues because of the stigma of mental health.  It found that 44% did not seek help because they did not want to be labelled “mentally ill”.

Janet Fyle, RCM professional policy advisor, said: “I would urge women who are having these feelings to discuss them with their midwife. They will be sympathetic, supportive and ensure that pregnant women receive the appropriate support or referral if required.”

Babycentre summary may be viewed here

Read the RCM’s response here