Your initial assessment can be for 60 - 90 minutes depending on the complexity of your mental health problems. The discussion will include:

​

• Your current and previous pregnancies

• How you feel about your pregnancy

• Your current mental health and treatment

• A review of your previous mental health problems, diagnosis and treatment

• Past experiences and relationships which may have an impact on parenting and your relationship with your baby

• Information and advice about the risks and benefits of medication in pregnancy and breastfeeding to help you make a decision about the best treatment for you

• Information about talking therapies which may help you

• Your risk of mental health problems in pregnancy and the postnatal period and how to reduce your chance of becoming unwell

• Planning the care and treatment you need during pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period

• The care and support you will need from your partner and/or other family members or friends

• Information about websites and resources you and your family may find helpful

• Agreeing any information it would be helpful to share with your obstetrician, midwife, health visitor and GP. This will ensure that the other professionals involved in your care know about key aspects of the care and treatment you need and how they can best support you.

 

I will send you a copy of your assessment letter. This will include the information discussed at the appointment, and the plan we agree for your care during pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period.

​

You can arrange follow-up appointments as needed during the rest of your pregnancy and the postnatal period. Follow-up appointments are for 30 minutes, or longer if needed. These can be face-to-face or video consultations.  

​