Mental Health in Pregnancy and After

Mental Health Help

Fear of Childbirth (takophobia)

It is normal to feel some anxiety at the thought of giving birth. If you are so anxious or scared to the point where you don't want to do it, please do reach out for help. Tommy's provides great advice and where you can seek expert help at the link below.

Perinatal Mental Health

Having a baby is a big life event. It's natural to experience a range of emotions during pregnancy and after giving birth. But if any difficult feelings start to have a big effect on your day-to-day life, you might be experiencing a perinatal mental health problem. Further details can be found at © Mind. This information is published in full at mind.org.uk.

Perinatal Depression

Lots of people are aware of postnatal depression. But it is less known that many people experience antenatal depression, and some people may experience both. The information on the link below is about perinatal depression, so it is relevant if you are experiencing either antenatal or postnatal depression.

Perinatal Anxiety

Lots of people are aware that you can become depressed after having a baby. But many people also experience anxiety during pregnancy and after giving birth. In fact, it is common to experience depression and anxiety together. The information on the link below is about perinatal anxiety, so it is relevant if you are experiencing either prenatal or postnatal anxiety.

Perinatal OCD

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a type of anxiety disorder. Perinatal OCD is when you experience OCD during pregnancy or in the first year after giving birth. The link below will provide further information on signs, symptoms, treatments and self-care.

Postnatal PTSD and Birth Trauma

Postnatal post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a type of anxiety disorder. It is also known as birth trauma. You may develop postnatal PTSD if you experience traumatic events during labour or childbirth. Further help can be found on the link below.

Postpartum Psychosis

Postpartum psychosis is a serious but rare mental health problem which develops after you give birth. It is sometimes called puerperal psychosis. 
Postpartum psychosis can be an overwhelming and frightening experience, and it is important to seek help as soon as possible if you experience symptoms. But with the right support, most people fully recover. The link below provides further details and where to seek urgent help.

Association for Postnatal Illness

You are not alone, get in touch for some friendly advice, or just to talk through how you're feeling.

APNI is here to help you.

Information Support

There are numerous support organisations and charities as well as specialist service providers to help with all aspects of mental health wellbeing during pregnancy, labour and after. For additional services, please follow the link below where these are listed.