More support for expectant and new mums

The Perinatal Community Mental Health Team is led by a dedicated consultant perinatal psychiatrist, working with other health professionals in Lincolnshire, to offer mental health treatment and advice to pregnant women, new mums and their partners and relatives.

The team also provides advice for other professionals involved in women’s care.

Steph Hodds, perinatal team coordinator, said: “Women with serious mental health difficulties in pregnancy and the year following birth require specialist psychiatric treatment significantly different from that provided by general adult mental health services.

“The perinatal period covers pregnancy and the first year of motherhood when it is essential that the right care is provided at the right time.

“By raising awareness of the importance of early detection of perinatal mental health disorders we are able to provide appropriate and timely treatment during pregnancy and in the post-natal period to manage serious mental health difficulties.”

Dr Zena Schofield, acting consultant perinatal psychiatrist, said: “Our team will provide assessment and treatment for women with serious mental illnesses or at increased risk of these difficulties. We will work to keep mum and baby together, ensuring treatment is provided in the most appropriate environment which for the majority of women will be in their own homes.”