Perinatal mental health: key warning signs, impact and collaborative care
On World Mental Health Day, Dr Sarah Taha, Consultant Perinatal Psychiatrist at the Lindo Wing, discusses the warning signs of perinatal mental health disorders, the impact of perinatal mental health issues and having a collaborative approach towards providing care.
Can you explain what a consultant perinatal psychiatrist does?
As a consultant perinatal psychiatrist, I specialise in supporting people through pregnancy and the postpartum period, focusing on their mental health. My role involves diagnosing and treating mental health conditions that can arise during this time, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar affective disorder. I work closely with pregnant people, their families, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that both the mental well-being of the mother and the development of their baby are supported.
What are the key warning signs of perinatal mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety?
Some key signs of depression include persistent low mood, feelings of hopelessness and guilt, extreme fatigue, difficulty bonding with the baby, and irritability. Anxiety might also manifest as constant worry, racing thoughts, or even physical symptoms like a racing heart or trouble sleeping. If these feelings become overwhelming or last more than a couple of weeks, it is important to seek help.
What is the impact of untreated perinatal mental health difficulties on the mother and child?
If left untreated, perinatal mental health difficulties can affect both parents, the child and the wider family. For the mother, it could lead to ongoing mental health challenges, difficulty bonding with the baby, and a strain on relationships. For the child, untreated maternal mental health problems can affect their emotional, social, and cognitive development. However, it is important to know that getting help early is the key to improving outcomes for both mother and child.
How do you work with other professionals like obstetricians, midwives, or psychologists in providing holistic care?
Collaboration is at the heart of perinatal care. I work with obstetricians, midwives and psychologists to ensure we are supporting the mother and baby in a comprehensive way. Sharing insights and making sure both physical and mental health needs are addressed.
Can you describe a typical day in your role as a perinatal psychiatrist?
Every day is different, but a typical day might involve seeing patients in clinic, where I assess their mental health and we agree a treatment plan tailored to their needs. I also join multidisciplinary meetings with midwives and other professionals to discuss complex cases. Some days I attend to urgent cases in a hospital setting. Throughout the day, I also make time to review notes, offer support to junior colleagues and deliver teaching or training sessions.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job, and what inspired you to go into your field of work?
The most rewarding part of my job is witnessing the resilience and strength of the people I work with. Supporting them through difficult periods and seeing them bond with their babies is incredibly fulfilling. I was drawn to this field because of my interest in both mental health and maternal well-being. The perinatal period is such a crucial time for both mother and baby and I wanted to help families navigate that, particularly when they face mental health challenges.
What do you enjoy most about working at Imperial College Healthcare?
What I enjoy most about working at Imperial College Healthcare is the collaborative and compassionate environment. We work with an incredibly diverse group of patients and the team is committed to providing the best care possible. I work with a highly skilled, dedicated and experienced group of clinicians who are deeply committed to providing exceptional care.
View Dr Sarah Taha’s profile here.
Get in touch.
imperial.private.healthcare@nhs.net
+44 (0) 203 311 7700
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust's perinatal mental health service
- Tommy’s
- NHS talking therapies service
- Royal College of Psychiatrists
- Action on Postpartum Psychosis
- PANDAS Foundation
