Mental health and well-being

Emotional highs and lows are natural and normal when you’re pregnant. Most people have good mental health during their pregnancy, though some find their mental health suffers in pregnancy and they need extra support.

You can help yourself stay mentally well while pregnant and preparing for the birth of your baby.

It’s normal to experience worries, you might worry about:

• How you'll cope

• Whether you'll be a good enough parent

• Labour and giving birth

• Feeling alone or unsupported.

Try to share how you’re feeling with someone you trust, and talk about the things that are worrying you.

If you are starting to feel anxious or low, or you are having unusual thoughts or feelings, please talk to your midwife or obstetrician as soon as possible. Please do not be frightened to ask for help - mental health problems in pregnancy are common and treatable. The earlier you get help and support the better for you and your baby’s well-being.

Mental health checks

All pregnant people have physical checks at antenatal appointments. You will also be asked about your emotional wellbeing at routine antenatal appointments. Sometimes you will be asked to complete a short questionnaire to help your midwife or obstetrician decide the best service or treatment for you.

If you need extra support because of your mental health you may be offered more antenatal appointments and/or you may also receive care from a specialist mental health service.

Maintaining your mental health's important for you and your baby.

Try to:

• Talk to people about how you’re feeling - it’s okay to say you’re finding things hard, don’t be afraid to ask for help

• Set realistic goals and take small steps that allow you to note progress along the way

• Get a good night’s sleep and eat regular healthy meals - everyone feels better when they’re well rested and eating well

• Be active - being outside and active's great for your mental health.

Dealing with mental illness

As many as 1 in 5 women and 1 in 10 men are affected by mental ill health during pregnancy, and the year after birth.

It's very important for you and your baby that you seek help. There's treatment and support available, and the sooner you get help, the sooner you’ll start to feel like yourself again.

If you've had a previous traumatic birth

It might also be helpful to let your midwife or obstetrician know if you had a difficult or traumatic birth previously and are worried about giving birth again.

They can ensure you get the right support during and after your pregnancy.