GPs ‘are treating key check-ups for new mothers as a box ticking exercise’, study suggests
GPs “treat important checkups for new mothers like a tick-off exercise,” research suggests
- Watchdogs have warned that many important six-week evaluations are not happening
- Failure means that problems, including mental health problems, go unnoticed
- GPs should assess the mental health of new mothers six to eight weeks after birth
GPs are neglecting new mothers by not offering crucial postnatal checkups or treating them like a tick-off exercise, a study suggests.
Patient watchdogs have warned that many important six-week evaluations simply don’t happen — and when they do, women are dissatisfied with the support they receive.
The failure means mental health issues go undetected, which can prevent mothers from developing a close bond with their babies and potentially destroy their relationships with their partners as well.
GPs are contractually obligated and paid to assess the mental health and well-being of new mothers six to eight weeks after giving birth. The consultations are intended to ensure that the woman recovers well and to refer to a specialized service if necessary.
However, a poll of 2,693 new mothers by Healthwatch England found that 16 per cent had not undergone the check.
Patient watchdogs have warned that many important six-weekly assessments simply don’t happen – and when they do, women are dissatisfied with the support they receive
Of those who did, 15 per cent were assessed over the phone and only 22 per cent were satisfied with the time their GP spent talking to them about their mental health. About two-thirds of women said they struggled with their mental health during and after pregnancy.
Of these, 41 percent said they received no support during and after pregnancy to help with their mental health.
The watchdog warned that delays in accessing mental health care can have a significant impact on new parents, with some telling the organization they struggled to leave home, bond with their child or maintain relationships.
The findings come after the Care Quality Commission warned of a ‘worrying decline’ in women’s experiences of maternity care due to a shortage of frontline staff.
Healthwatch England’s Louise Ansari said: ‘Our findings show that while most new mothers and parents giving birth are likely to be invited for a post-natal consultation, these are often conducted as a tick-off exercise where mental health is not considered a priority or a priority. being treated. not rated at all.’
An NHS spokesperson said: ‘The NHS is working with GPs and patients’ associations to ensure that all new mothers receive a post-natal mental and physical health check six weeks after giving birth, as set out in the GP contract.’
Healthwatch England has made a series of recommendations to NHS England and local health authorities.