An individualised approach to the management of pre-existing mental health conditions in pregnancy and puerperium

The increasing incidence of perinatal mental health conditions presents a substantial financial challenge to the NHS and significantly affects mothers, birthing individuals, and unborn children if untreated. The literature emphasises that many postnatal psychiatric conditions in women begin during the antenatal period. This article delves into case studies to illustrate some common presentations in perinatal mental health, particularly focusing on antenatal and postnatal management. It underscores the critical role of an individualised birth care plan in enhancing patient outcomes. Through these cases we demonstrate that timely intervention during pregnancy could potentially mitigate the severe postpartum consequences associated with maternal mental health conditions.