Midwife patients report more postpartum mental health struggles

Women who use a midwife instead of a traditional obstetrician may face more mental health struggles after birth, a new survey suggests. The findings were reported by Newsweek. About 20 per cent of women who give birth in the United States experience a postpartum mental health issue. These include depression and anxiety. The survey found midwife patients were more likely to report such problems. But the care they received afterwards may have been better than that of other patients. Many women said they lacked resources to deal with postpartum problems. Surveys show both men and women poorly understand the symptoms. These include low mood, worry and trouble bonding with the baby. Experts say better screening after birth is needed for all mothers. Support from family, doctors and community groups can help. Women with persistent low mood after delivery are advised to seek help early. Postpartum mental health issues are common and treatable. The findings were highlighted in recent health news roundups.
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