For expectant and new parents, Bristol Family Hubs and the Sirona Health Visiting Service webpages offer a range of resources and support services, including for dads and co-parents.
In Bristol, the perinatal period is often defined as spanning pregnancy and the first two years following childbirth. Some sources may refer to it as pregnancy and the first 12 months after childbirth.
Perinatal mental illness affects up to 27% of new and expectant mums and covers a wide range of conditions, such as antenatal and postnatal depression and anxiety. If left untreated, mental health issues can have significant and long-lasting effects on the woman, the child, and the wider family (NHS England).
The Maternal Mental Health Alliance provides accessible information on perinatal mental health conditions, including common risk factors and guidance on spotting the signs.
While many parents experience common mental health difficulties during the perinatal period, some conditions require specialist assessment and care. Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership (AWP) provides a Postpartum Psychosis Pathway to support professionals in recognising, assessing and responding to suspected cases of Postpartum Psychosis.
Where concerns relate to perinatal mental health, with or without difficulties in the parent-infant/unborn relationship, referrals should be made to the Specialist Community Perinatal Mental Health Service (AWP). The service accepts referrals from 12 weeks gestation up to 20 months postnatally.
Further information about referral processes and the Postpartum Psychosis Pathway is available on the AWP Perinatal Mental Health Landing Page.
