Perinatal mental health affects around one in five women and refers to mental health during pregnancy and up to roughly a year after giving birth. This might be a new mental health problem or another episode of an existing problem and can include post-natal depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, eating disorders and post-traumatic stress disorders. 

It’s important for pharmacy teams to build a rapport with women early in their pregnancy so they can notice any signs that may indicate a woman is not coping as expected during pregnancy or after the birth of her baby. This may include picking up on changes in appearance that indicate poorer self care.

Some women may be reluctant to seek medical help, but you may be able to help them identify with someone in their primary care team that they would be willing to talk to. Ask what support she needs or signpost her to her GP, health visitor or midwife and Mind.