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Dr Chido Rwafa Madzvamutse
Mental Wellness

As discussed in previous articles, mental health is defined as a state of well-being in which an individual realises his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a meaningful contribution to their community.

Having a baby is life changing and can be joyful and exciting.

However, the stress and strain of pregnancy and caring for a new born can come with mental health challenges.

Awareness about the mental health challenges faced by women and their partners during a pregnancy and after can help ensure timely, appropriate support and care.

Common mental health problems in pregnancy and in the post-partum period.

Depression in pregnancy and in the post-partum period.

Women may struggle with sadness, irritability, fatigue, demotivation, feelings of helplessness and hopelessness during and after pregnancy. Partners of women who are pregnant or in the post-partum period may also feel stressed and may develop depression.

Anxiety in pregnancy and in the post-partum period.

Some women may struggle with fearfulness during pregnancy, excessively worrying about the baby’s health or their own health, worrying about the delivery and the baby’s growth and development after delivery. This can affect their sleep and appetite and general wellbeing.

Post-partum psychosis.

Some women may develop psychosis (experiencing hallucinations, delusions and abnormal behaviour such as refusing to feed or hold the baby) soon after delivery.

Trauma related to pregnancy, delivery and the post-partum period.

Pregnancy can be difficult for some women with severe, frightening health problems and this can be traumatising. Women who have previously lost their pregnancies may struggle during and after pregnancy. The delivery process itself can be traumatising for women, particularly if they feel disempowered and helpless.

What puts women at risk of perinatal mental health challenges?

Genetics and family predisposition can put women at particular risk of certain mental problems particularly depression and anxiety.

Hormonal changes that occur during and after pregnancy can affect a woman’s mental wellbeing.

Financial challenges can increase worry and stress during pregnancy. Lack of financial independence can lead to anxiety and also increases risk of financial abuse.

Poor social support

Our increasingly nuclear families and isolated family units can mean weaker support systems for women during and after pregnancy.

Domestic/gender based violence

Women are particularly vulnerable to domestic abuse during and after pregnancy

How can we support perinatal mental wellbeing?

Increased awareness about common mental health problems that can occur during and after pregnancy.

Improved social support for women and their partners during and after pregnancy.

Routine screening of pregnant and post-partum women and their partners for common mental health problems as part of routine care.

Ensuring safe and dignified antenatal care to help women to feel empowered during the pregnancy and delivery process.

If you think that you or a young person that you know may be experiencing a mental health problem linked to pregnancy and child birth, please contact your nearest health care provider and get help.

Association of Health Care Funders of Zimbabwe (AHFoZ) article written by Dr Chido Rwafa Madzvamutse, consultant psychiatrist.

Feedback: 263777727332 or www.ahfoz.org ; [email protected])