Women who have experienced mental health problems in the past have a high risk of becoming unwell after childbirth.
It is important for you to seek out specialised advice even if you feel well during pregnancy. Your GP should refer you to a mental health service if you have ever had:
- a serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder or severe depression
- postpartum psychosis or severe postnatal depression
- a severe anxiety disorder such as obsessive compulsive disorder
- an eating disorder, such as anorexia or bulimia
- inpatient treatment from mental health services
Mental health professions will discuss care and treatment choices with you. They will help you make a plan for your care, with your midwife, obstetrician, health visitor and GP.
Often your GP will be able to advise about care and treatment. This will depend on the illness you have had and how severe it has been.
