JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Onset of depression and anxiety can occur before, during or after pregnancy, and ongoing conditions can either improve or deteriorate at all stages. Early identification and treatment of perinatal mental ill-health can reduce rates of depression and other mental ill-health conditions postpartum. National and international guidelines recommend that maternal healthcare contribute to improving pregnant women’s mental health by consistently asking pertinent questions during pregnancy and offering necessary support and care.

Objective:

The general aim of this research project is to investigate the effects of the implementation of a structured method for psychosocial assessment during pregnancy, as well as evaluating midwives´ experiences of working with the method.

Methods:

The structured method will be evaluated, and possible effects will be investigated through comparison of the periods before and after implementation. Data sources for the study are questionnaire responses, medical records, Swedish Pregnancy Register data and interviews with midwives

Results:

Part of the recruitment process and data collection is ongoing. Dissemination plan includes several publications of original research and two doctoral theses.

Conclusions:

This study's results are expected to be highly relevant for maternal healthcare, both nationally and internationally. The structured method and evaluation of the implementation could serve as a model for more standardized and effective care. If successful, it may influence national policies and attract global attention as a model for improving maternity care.