Many women experience changes in their mental health during the perinatal period. In this guide, the perinatal period refers to the duration of pregnancy and the year after birth. period. Poor mental health can negatively affect women’s health and the well-being of their babies and families. Equally, poor health or difficult circumstances in the lives of women, their babies and families can negatively impact women’s mental health. Maternal and child health (MCH) services during the perinatal period provide a unique opportunity for service providers to connect with women and provide support.
This guide was written to provide information about how staff in MCH services can provide mental health promotion, prevention, treatment and care. Supporting good mental health can improve health outcomes, and the quality of MCH services for all women can be improved by creating an environment where they feel safe to discuss any difficulties they are experiencing in a respectful and caring environment that is free from stigmatization. This may increase attendance and result in better engagement in care for women and their babies.