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MamaKind

Perinatal mental health

Perinatal mental health (PMH) problems are those which occur during pregnancy or in the first year following the birth of a child. Perinatal mental illness affects up to 27% of new and expectant mums and covers a wide range of conditions. If left untreated, mental health issues can have significant and long-lasting effects on the woman, the child, and the wider family.

Source: NHS England

You are not alone

Approximately 68% of women (and 57% of men) with mental health problems are parents. (1)

The most common mental health problems experienced during pregnancy and after birth are anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

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Women experiencing maternal mental health problems in numbers:

  • Mild-moderate depressive illness and anxiety disorders: 10-15% (1)

  • Adjustment disorders and distress: 15-30% (1)

  • Severe depressive illness: 3% (1)

  • Birth Trauma: 30% (presenting symptoms of PTSD) of whom 4-5% develop PTSD (2)

Sources: (1) Mental Health Foundation​; (2) Birth Trauma Association.

Pregnancy support

Feeling anxious or low during pregnancy can be confusing and bring up feelings of guilt and helplessness. Through solution-focused hypnotherapy and CBT, I can help you explore your thoughts and feelings and support you to feel more serene, confident and positive towards becoming a parent.

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Beyond stress-management and overcoming persistent low-mood, I also support expectant parents with:

  • Antenatal depression and anxiety

  • Tokophobia (severe fear of pregnancy and childbirth)

  • Needle or hospital phobia

  • Previous birth trauma

  • Preparing for elective (planned) Caesarean Section

Birth Preparation

I offer private and group Hypnobirthing classes in Bristol and Online.

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Whether you're preparing for a first or subsequent birth, Hypnobirthing can help you to gain trust in your body and in your innate and instinctive ability to give birth. It releases fear and replaces deeply rooted negative beliefs about childbirth with practical knowledge and a positive mindset which can be applied to all pregnancies and any type of birth.

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A study run by Midwives in Bristol a few years ago, showed a significant reduction of caesarean section rate; 16.6% for those who attended the hypnobirthing course compared to a national average of 25.5% over the same period (currently 34%). A quarter of these women needed no pain relief at all during labour, and 90% reported a positive birthing experience.

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The content of my courses is evidence-based, logical and can be tailored to individual circumstances. For more information about my birth preparation and Hypnobirthing offering, including upcoming courses dates, visit Poppyandjack.co.uk.

Postnatal support

The weeks, months, and even years after a child is born can be incredibly vulnerable and challenging. The birth of a baby is not only the arrival of a new life but also marks the beginning of the journey for the parents. This transition, with the period of adjustment it demands, can be a source of self-doubt, low confidence, and low self-esteem.

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Adding to this, disturbed sleep and the societal pressure to be a 'perfect parent,' often with very little support, mean that we suddenly have to find our feet and learn new skills with a full 'stress-bucket.' So, while becoming a parent can be the most joyful and fulfilling event, for some, it can feel very daunting and overwhelming.

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Throughout the world, postpartum depression (PPD) and anxiety (PPA) disorders affect 15 to 20% of new mothers. I feel very passionate about the belief that parents deserve to feel empowered by their journey, which is why I specialise in perinatal mental health, offering the support to grow and nurture a profound sense of confidence, and to regain control of their lives, whilst feeling seen, valued and held.

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I offer support to mothers and parents in overcoming:

  • Postpartum depression (PPD) and anxiety (PPA) 

  • Intrusive thoughts and Perinatal OCD

  • Trauma associated with difficult experiences around birth, breastfeeding difficulties, and loss

  • Attachment and bonding issues

  • Adjustment to parenthood and relationship support

As a passionate advocate for mothers' well-being, I also organise regular events and workshops in and around Bristol.

To find out more, click here.

If you would like to discuss how I can support you on your perinatal journey, please contact me using the form below. I offer a free 30-minute initial consultation. Sessions are held in-person or online.

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