15,000 UK Mothers Left in the Dark With Undiagnosed PTSD After Childbirth, Putting Families at Risk
Thousands of women in the UK could be suffering from undiagnosed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after giving birth, which is a concern for the wellbeing of mothers and their children.
At least 15,000 women a year might suffer from childbirth-related PTSD without specialist support, according to a new evidence review by researchers at the University of East Anglia. The actual number may be much higher, the researchers said.
Some cases are misdiagnosed as postnatal depression, the study, published in the British Journal of General Practice, found. This can leave mothers without the psychological care they need to deal with trauma associated with pregnancy or childbirth.
PTSD may include nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety and ongoing negative thoughts. Researchers noted that if left untreated, it can impact relationships, family life and a mother’s confidence in accessing health care services.
The problem is not just about the mother’s well-being for children. Untreated mental health issues in a parent can impact the family dynamic, parenting and the emotional climate of a child’s life.
The six-week postnatal check was identified as a missed opportunity, as consultations tend to be very much focused on the baby’s health, with little time available to discuss the mother’s mental wellbeing.
The Royal College of GPs recommended that there should be better co-ordinated support across the whole postnatal period, from maternity services to health visitors, GPs and specialist mental health services.
The results highlight the need to consider maternal mental health as a component of child protection and family wellbeing and to support mothers before they become distressed and enter a longer-term crisis.
