Thousands of mothers may have undiagnosed PTSD after childbirth, local research shows
University of East Anglia research urges improved GP training
Research from the University of East Anglia suggests that tens of thousands of new mothers across the UK could be experiencing undiagnosed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following childbirth.
The findings highlight that emotional and psychological trauma linked to childbirth might be overlooked or misdiagnosed during postnatal GP appointments.
The report follows critical reviews of maternity and neonatal services in England from Baroness Amos and Donna Ockenden, amidst rising concerns about maternal mental health.
PTSD can emerge after a challenging pregnancy or birth and result in symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and persistent negative thoughts.
The University of East Anglia team is calling on the NHS to better equip GPs with methods to identify potential PTSD in new mothers, hoping to reduce the number of women who do not receive needed support.
Recent figures indicate that suicide was the leading cause of death among women between six weeks and one year postpartum in the UK for 2021–2023.
Dr Megan Foreman, lead researcher and GP at the Norwich Medical School, says, “Research shows that around one in 20 postnatal women develop PTSD, equal to tens of thousands of mothers across the UK.”
Dr Megan also stressed how this effects not only the mothers, but the whole family:
"this can be really distressing for women. It can have an impact on the whole family."
The report identifies that, despite birth trauma being acknowledged in national guidance, practical advice on these aspects remains scarce.
Moreover, healthcare professionals, including GPs, may lack confidence and skills to support women impacted by birth trauma adequately.
Dr Foreman explains, “GPs are the primary gateway to specialist mental health services for new mothers, yet they face increasing pressures, staff shortages, and limited appointment times.”
The researchers are advocating for clear guidance to be developed collaboratively with women, including validated assessment tools for GPs to utilise during routine postnatal appointments.
"So giving women that reassurance that GPs want to help, that healthcare professionals want to help and to give them the support that they need and that we want to work with them to make sure that that happens" said Dr Megan.