Perinatal Period

What do we mean by Perinatal Period?

The perinatal period is the time from when you become pregnant up until one year after giving birth. You might also have heard this called antenatal and postnatal.

How common is it to struggle at this time?

Research tells us that around 20% of women and 8% of men will struggle with their mood during this period; in reality we expect that rates are much higher
than this. Becoming a parent is a huge adjustment in our lives. As with any big life change, struggling with our emotional wellbeing is expected at this time, given the physical, emotional, and hormonal changes we might be facing. This is a massive adjustment for both parents. Our world transforms and there is a lot of uncertainty to cope with.

What do people struggle with?

Anxiety and worry, bonding difficulties, depression, low mood, struggles with body image, difficulty coping with traumatic births (sometimes called Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) and Postnatal OCD. This isn’t an exhaustive list but outlines much of what we are commonly supporting people with.

Everyone who contacts NHS Talking Therapies will be offered an initial triage appointment within a few weeks. We talk to you about what you have been struggling with, and help you to decide if talking therapies can help. 

Lots of parents tell us they are worried about asking for help because they don’t want to be judged as being a bad parent, and sometimes even worry that baby will be taken away from them. Our service will listen openly to your concerns and you can expect a non-judgemental approach. We are here to support you on your parenting journey and help you to make sense of how you are feeling.

All parents are prioritised for therapy. So you can expect to get the right support, at the right time, with someone who is skilled to support your specific needs. You can even bring your baby along to your appointments.

Confidentiality: Your contact with us will be stored on a service specific computer database. Please ask if you have any questions.

Support with domestic violence: refuge.org.uk
Samaritans: Call 116 123
Parent coaches: Parentsactionforchildren.org
Gingerbread - information and support for single parent families: Call 0808 802 0925

What if I need immediate support?
Mental Health Access Hub: 
If you feel unsafe and require urgent support for your mental health (24 hour helpline): 08081 966 798

Coventry and Warwickshire Mental Health Helpline: 0800 616171

Solihull Mental Health Helpline: Call 0121 262 3555 or 0800 915 9292

• 10% of men will struggle with their mood during pregnancy or as a new dad.
• This is twice as many as at other times in our life.
• Dads aren’t routinely asked about their mental health, but the relationship a dad has with his baby is very important to the long-term health and wellbeing of the family.
• Communication in relationships can become strained.
• It’s easy to lose sight of your own needs and this can impact on your parenting journey.

Couples Therapy for Depression: An evidence-based therapy that focuses on the relationship in the context of depression.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy: This therapy is provided via telephone, video call or in person. You can meet one-to-one with a qualified therapist who will help you make sense of your difficulties and teach you skills and coping techniques.

Counselling for depression: Counselling offers a safe space where you are able to explore your emotions, beliefs and behaviours in a non-judgmental way.