Perinatal Mental Health
The perinatal period — encompassing pregnancy and the first two years after birth — is a time of profound change. Whilst often immensely rewarding, it also commonly brings many intense and complex challenges. These difficulties can occur at any point of the perinatal journey. Prioritising your mental health throughout this time of intense transformation is essential not only for you, but for the health and wellbeing of your child and family. We understand the complexities of this vulnerable time, and are committed to supporting you to have a joyful and confident journey to and through parenthood.
The Perinatal Journey
We offer a comprehensive range of psychological services designed to support women through every stage of their journey to motherhood. Our approach is holistic, individualised, and grounded in the latest psychological research, ensuring that each woman receives the care and guidance she needs to thrive.
Pre-conception
Preparing for motherhood begins long before pregnancy. Pre-conception support helps you build a strong mental and emotional foundation, addressing any anxieties or concerns about conception and future motherhood.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time of significant change and can bring a mix of joy and anxiety. Pregnancy support helps you navigate emotional challenges and maintain mental wellbeing throughout this transformative period.
Labour and Birth
Preparing for labour and birth is crucial for a positive birth experience. Labour and birth preparation equips you with effective techniques to manage fear, stay calm, and foster a confident mindset for childbirth.
Early Postpartum
The early postpartum period, also known as the 'fourth trimester,' is a critical time for recovery and adjustment. Postpartum care offers emotional support and specialised care to ensure your wellbeing during this crucial phase, when sleep deprivation, feeding difficulties, physical recovery, emotional overwhelm are rife.
Matrescence
Matrescence, the process of becoming a mother, is a profound transformation. Matrescence guidance helps you understand and embrace this journey, offering support for identity changes and self-care strategies.
Adjustment to Motherhood
The journey to motherhood continues well beyond the early postpartum period. Adjustment to motherhood provides ongoing support and practical advice for parenting and work-life balance as you grow and evolve in your role.
Return to Work
Returning to work after maternity leave is a significant transition. Return-to-work services offer support and strategies to help you balance professional responsibilities with motherhood and manage this adjustment smoothly.
Infertility and Loss
Experiencing infertility and loss can be profoundly challenging and heartbreaking. Support for infertility and loss helps you process grief, find emotional healing, and navigate the complex emotions associated with these experiences.
Common Challenges
Here are some common issues that arise throughout the perinatal period that we can help you with.
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Fertility-related distress – including the emotional impact of infertility, conception difficulties, or assisted reproductive treatment
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Pregnancy loss – grief following miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal loss
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Anxiety or depression – experiencing low mood, worry, or overwhelm during any stage of the perinatal period
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Fear of childbirth (tokophobia) – intense anxiety or dread related to labour and delivery
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Postnatal adjustment difficulties – navigating the emotional, physical, and practical changes in the early weeks and months after birth
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Identity changes and matrescence – the shift in identity, values, and roles that often occurs during the transition to motherhood
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Bonding and attachment concerns – difficulties feeling connected to your baby
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Intrusive thoughts and heightened anxiety – distressing thoughts or excessive worry about your baby’s safety
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Perfectionism and guilt – struggling with unrealistic expectations or feeling like you’re not doing “enough”
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Relationship challenges – changes in communication, intimacy, or roles with your partner
When to Seek Help
You don’t have to wait until things feel overwhelming to reach out — seeking support early can make a meaningful difference. Whether you’re preparing for birth, processing a difficult experience, or finding your way through the early days of motherhood, you're not alone.
You don’t have to navigate this transition on your own. Our aim is to support you in approaching motherhood with confidence, resilience, and self-compassion. Together, we’ll explore strategies to help you feel grounded and supported during this transformative time.
We’re here to walk alongside you — helping you care for your mental health as you care for your baby.