Unit of Study MIDW2014 Perinatal Mental Health (2024)

Unit description

Develops knowledge and understanding of the common mental health issues experienced by women during the childbearing continuum and the first year after birth. Explores the psychological health of women across the continuum of pregnancy, birth and postnatal period. Current screening and assessment tools, treatments, support services, risk factors and common psychological health issues are discussed. Consideration of woman, her baby and family’s cultural needs will be examined. Finally, the potential impact on the midwife of working with women and their families experiencing perinatal mental health issues will be explored.

Unit content

1. Understanding perinatal mental health – overview, screening and assessment
2. Psychological health issues in the perinatal period – the contributing factors
3. Supporting women with mental health conditions – common mental health issues and treatment options
4. The impact of perinatal mental health illnesses – fetal and child development, women, family & community 
5. Perinatal mental health – drugs, alcohol, trauma and domestic violence 
6. The midwife and mental health