Caring for women with mental health problems
before, during and after pregnancy
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Trying to conceive, being pregnant, birth and being a mum may be more difficult than you expected because of:
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Difficulty conceiving
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Previous pregnancy loss
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Previous traumatic birth experience
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Pregnancy related complications
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Difficulties from your own childhood or relationship with your parents
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Personality traits – e.g. women who are perfectionists can have unrealistic expectations about themselves as mothers and easily feel “not good enough” as a mum
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Previous mental health problems – worrying about symptoms returning; being unsure about whether to continue or change your medication; or being concerned about having an increased risk of mental health problems during pregnancy or after birth.
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Current mental health problems – these may affect how you look after yourself, your thoughts about yourself as a mum, how you feel about your baby and your ability to manage daily activities
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Lack of support
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Difficulties in your relationship with your partner
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Fear of childbirth
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Other current life stresses