Women of reproductive age regardless of age should receive proper mental health support before, during and even after childbirth. This was reiterated following a case of Charlotte Bevan, 30, surfaced. The mother and her four-day old daughter Zaani were found in the Avon Gorge after they went missing from a maternity hospital in Bristol.
According to statistics, one fifth of women giving birth develop post-partum depression within a year after giving birth. The rate has increased drastically over the years.
The caseof Bevan sparked issues about depression and even had police search for them when they left the hospital. She was not wearing a coat with just her hospital slippers and her baby wrapped in blankets. She was believed to be suffering from a mental condition called schizophrenia and depression. Also, she had no sleep since she gave birth.
NICE says that the impact of mental health problems after pregnancy can last longer than expected. Also, anxiety and depression are now common among post-partum mothers.
In their recommendations published in 2007, they reiterated on the importance of counseling on the implications of pregnancy and their role before and after giving birth. Also, the proper diagnosis and identification of mental health problems among women should be implemented so as prompt intervention can be done.
An integrated care plan should be implemented in early pregnancy if the woman has a risk for any mental problems. Childbirth is a very crucial and exhausting part of the lives of mothers and the importance of support should be reiterated. The support of family and friends is very important for mothers especially after giving birth.
Prof Mark Baker, NICE Centre for Clinical Practice director, said: "Giving women the right treatment at the right time can have a profound effect - not just for the mother, but her family too.The effect of getting this right can last for years."
