The psychiatrist in the obstetric unit. Establishing a liaison service.
The establishment and first 18 months of a psychiatric liaison service to a general hospital obstetric unit are described. The service was initially intended to predict antenatally those at risk of post-natal depression and to offer follow-up throughout pregnancy and in the post-natal period. However, a large proportion of referrals were of women currently unwell. Furthermore, post-natal follow-up in the community proved difficult. Referrals, diagnoses and disposal are analysed, leading to conclusions about the effectiveness and problem of such a service. The components of a comprehensive obstetric liaison provision are proposed, emphasising the need for strong community links built around a CPN service, allowing adequate postnatal psychiatric care.
Appleby
L
L
Department of Psychiatry, De Crespigny Park, London.
Fox
H
H
Shaw
M
M
Kumar
R
R
D000328:Adult; D003156:Community Mental Health Services; D005260:Female; D006748:Hospital Departments / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D009775:Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011295:Prenatal Care; D011570:Psychiatry; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011644:Puerperal Disorders / Q000523:psychology*; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012307:Risk Factors