HOW DO WE PROVIDE WOMEN-CENTRED CARE FOR THE ONE-IN-FIVE WOMEN WHO HAVE A MENTAL HEALTH CONDITION? 2. CHALLENGES AND NEXT STEPS

ABSTRACT

The Scottish Government released the Mental Health Strategy to improve mental health services. With one-in-five pregnant women being identified as having a mental health condition, it is a prevalent issue for midwives. There are obstacles in midwifery to being able to meet the expectations of the aims of the Mental Health Strategy. These include accessing services, mental health stigma, organisational challenges, training and the impact of COVID-19. Solutions such as The Best Start and continuity of care within midwifery, appropriate referral process, training and education, and increased awareness can help midwives achieve the Scottish Government's aims. This is the final article in the series.