Speak with a midwife about mental health and emotional wellbeing

West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership is advising people who are expecting a baby to get in touch with their midwife if they feel that their mental health is worsening, or their emotional wellbeing is not as good as it could be.

The West Yorkshire and Harrogate Local Maternity and Neonatal System (WY&H LMNS) is promoting maternity (also known as antenatal) care beginning at the earliest stage of pregnancy so women can be given the information and support they need to have a healthy pregnancy. This includes all elements of mental and emotional health.

Early booking appointments also mean that people with specific needs or risk factors, such as diagnosed mental illness or who are taking medication to support their mental health can get the care they need from the start of their pregnancy.

Rebecca Thomas, Specialist Maternal Mental Health Midwife said:  “We know that every pregnancy journey is different, but seeing a midwife early is proven to deliver better outcomes for both mum and baby. Midwives understand that pregnancy can be difficult for some people and that mental health can be affected. People who are concerned about how they are feeling or need advice about their   medication should speak with their midwife, who will refer them, if necessary, to the appropriate service.

 Midwives are here to help and pregnancy care appointments are safe, confidential and accessible to everyone. Anyone who is pregnant in West Yorkshire can find an appointment to suit them on our website Speak with a midwife .”