What does perinatal mental health support treat?

Perinatal care can help with depression after birth, anxiety during pregnancy or after delivery, adjustment difficulties, trauma related to birth, and worries that interfere with sleep, feeding, bonding, or daily tasks. It may also support people with an existing mental health condition when pregnancy, birth, or caring for a baby changes their needs. Care can include talking therapy, practical support, medication review, family involvement, or referral to a specialist team. The plan is shaped around symptoms, safety, pregnancy or breastfeeding, and personal preferences.

Tell a midwife, obstetric clinician, family doctor, or mental health professional what you have noticed and how long it has been affecting you. Mention sleep, appetite, panic, intrusive thoughts, mood changes, and whether you feel able to care for yourself or your baby. Ask about confidential support and what treatment options are compatible with pregnancy or breastfeeding. Accepting help early can make it easier to manage symptoms and create a safety plan.

Seek urgent mental health help if you may harm yourself or your baby, cannot care for basic needs, feel detached from reality, hear or see things others do not, or have rapidly changing extreme mood and behaviour. Postpartum psychosis is a medical emergency; do not stay alone or wait for a routine appointment. Contact local emergency services or attend an emergency department.

Which symptoms suggest depression, anxiety, trauma, or another condition? What support is available locally? Which therapies or medicines fit pregnancy or breastfeeding? How can my partner or family help? What should I do if my symptoms suddenly worsen?