Mental health findings
The findings show that the number of women with postnatal mental health problems is still higher than before the pandemic, with 3 in 10 women reporting symptoms of depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress 6 months after giving birth. Despite this, 2 in 10 women said they were either not asked, or could not remember being asked, about their mental health by a health professional at the time their pregnancy was booked (this is usually around 12 weeks) or after the birth of their baby. These findings highlight the ongoing need for timely conversations about mental health and access to effective support throughout pregnancy and the postnatal period.
Experiences of Maternity Care
More than 8 in 10 women said they were 'very satisfied' or 'satisfied' with their care during pregnancy and childbirth, while just over 7 in 10 women were 'very satisfied' or 'satisfied' with their postnatal care. While most women were satisfied, a considerable number of women were not satisfied with their care at different stages of the maternity journey. These findings highlight the need to understand why some women report lower satisfaction with care, particularly after birth, so that targeted improvements can help ensure all women receive high-quality, supportive care.
Overall Message of the Findings
Overall, the findings suggest that while some aspects of maternity services are meeting the needs of most women, there are still challenges in meeting all women's needs, particularly around mental health and postnatal care.
We heard from women from a wide range of backgrounds, which strengthens the survey and helps ensure the findings reflect the experiences of women giving birth in England. - Dr Siân Harrison, NPEU Senior Social Scientist
By capturing women's experiences throughout their maternity journey and up to six months after birth, the survey can help inform policy and future service planning in maternity and mental health care.- Professor Fiona Alderdice Study co-lead (NPEU)
About the survey
We would like to thank all the women who took part in the survey. We carried out this research with the support of partners from our Parent and Public Involvement (PPI) network, and we are grateful for their help in shaping the survey so that women's experiences were at its heart.
This research is funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Policy Research Programme, conducted through the Policy Research Unit in Maternal and Neonatal Health and Care, NIHR206113. The views expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the NIHR or the Department of Health and Social Care.
View the survey in full
Click to view National Maternity Surveys