There should be dedicated professional health and wellbeing support for women in their first year after pregnancy, a survey for Public Health Wales has revealed.
More than 78% of those questioned in the Time To Talk Public Health survey said such support was ‘very important’ for all women who had been pregnant, even if for instance they had suffered miscarriage.
More than half (58%) believed this support was best delivered in a dedicated health and wellbeing appointment, rather than as part of a child-focused meeting such as a vaccination. And nearly three-quarters thought health conversations after pregnancy should include a mix of planned topics and space for women to discuss what
matters to them. Mental health was seen as a top priority.
Health visitors were seen as a key source of support for women post-pregnancy, with 80% of respondents saying they should have a major role in supporting women’s health and wellbeing. Midwives, practice nurses and GPs, were also viewed as important, alongside other community-based professionals.
‘These findings reflect a strong public backing for personalised, holistic support, rather than a generalised approach,’ said Bethan Jenkin, principal public health practitioner at Public Health Wales.
‘They also highlight the importance of creating space for meaningful health and wellbeing conversations at the right time.’
Image | ISTOCK
