Supporting emotional and mental wellbeing before pregnancy matters. Listening and responding to concerns helps people feel prepared and supported, leading to healthier pregnancies and stronger bonds with their baby.
When mental health needs are not addressed, the effects can be significant and long-lasting for the individual, the child, and the wider family. Early support can make a real difference.
Any parent can experience mental health challenges during pregnancy and in the first 2 years after birth. Having a history of mental health problems can increase this risk:
- 1 in 5 women experience a mental health problem during or after pregnancy
- suicide is the leading cause of maternal death in the first year after childbirth
Other factors that may contribute include experiences of childhood abuse or neglect, domestic violence, relationship difficulties, lack of social support, alcohol or drug use, unplanned or unwanted pregnancy, and migration status.
Getting timely, targeted support during this period is essential to help families manage stress and protect their mental wellbeing, which benefits both parents and their baby.
Talking about mental health
It can be hard for people to talk about their feelings when they are expecting a baby, due to fear of stigma or judgement.
A common worry is that if someone talks to a professional about their mental health, their baby might be taken into care. In reality, this is not the case. Professionals want to offer early help so parents feel supported, can manage any challenges, and can meet their baby’s needs.
Professionals can help address this misunderstanding by:
- thanking parents for sharing their concerns
- reassuring them that support is available
- signposting to appropriate services for help and guidance
Mental health medications
Some medications used for mental health conditions may increase the risk of problems during pregnancy, but it's important that they do not stop taking medication without professional medical advice.
Encourage individuals planning pregnancy to review their medication with their GP, psychiatrist, or perinatal mental health team. They can help adjust any treatment safely and provide the right support throughout the pregnancy journey.
Messages for professionals to share
Advise anyone planning a pregnancy that it's important to talk to their GP or mental health professional as early as possible. Getting help early can make a big difference.
If someone takes medication, they should never stop taking it without speaking to a health professional first.
Let them know that it's okay to talk, and they won't be judged. Many people feel the same way, sharing how they feel is a positive step towards getting the support they deserve.
Mental health matters, feeling anxious, low, or overwhelmed during pregnancy or after birth is common. These feelings don't mean they're failing, it means they need support, and help is available.
Perinatal mental health issues are common and can have serious consequences if not treated, addressing the mental health needs of women and people during and after pregnancy is essential for improving outcomes for both parents and child
If anyone you support is feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, advise them to seek help before becoming pregnant.
More information and support
Find easy, trusted help with emotional and mental wellbeing, from Derby & Derbyshire - Emotional Health & Wellbeing.
Derbyshire perinatal service
Those living in Derbyshire, are over 12 weeks pregnant, or have given birth in the past 2 years, and are registered with a Derbyshire GP, can self-refer to the perinatal service.
They offer appointments to discuss how someone is feeling and identify the support someone might need moving forward. Whether this is the first time they are feeling this way, or they've experienced similar feelings before, support is available.
They offer appointments to discuss how someone is feeling and identify the support that someone might need moving forward. Whether this is the first time they are feeling this way, or they've experienced similar feelings before, support is available.
Dads' Space
Dad's Space is where dads can meet other dads in a relaxed environment, as well as access perinatal peer support from the warm and welcoming volunteers. Sessions are free and there is no need to book, simply turn up.
AndysManClub
AndysManClub is a men's suicide prevention charity, offering free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups across the United Kingdom and online, if they are over 18.
DigiDAD
DigiDAD is a unique online peer support community created by young dads, for young dads.