title: Striving for better maternal mental health.
abstract: Mental health is an integral part of health and a state of wellbeing. The concept of 'parity of esteem' increases awareness that mental health needs to be treated as seriously as physical health. During the childbirth continuum, women and their partners can be at increased risk of mental health problems; therefore it is important to embrace the 'parity of esteem' concept. This article highlights links between mental and physical health problems and discusses the vital role that midwives can play in promoting better maternal mental health. It considers the challenges this can present to midwives and maternity services.
authors.forename: Mary
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Steen
authors.forename: Scott
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Steen
mesh_terms: D019052:Depression, Postpartum / Q000451:nursing; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008429:Maternal Welfare / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000451:nursing* / Q000517:prevention & control; D008603:Mental Health / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D008880:Midwifery / Q000379:methods*; D009035:Mothers / Q000523:psychology; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009723:Nurse-Patient Relations; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000451:nursing* / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care; D006113:United Kingdom