Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what assessment he has made of the effects on maternal mental health of pregnancy and maternity discrimination at work; and what steps he plans to take to address this issue.

Mental health problems are not uncommon during pregnancy, with around 12% of women experiencing depression and 13% experiencing anxiety at some point. Research has also found that around one in five new mothers experience harassment or negative comments from colleagues, employers or managers when pregnant or returning to work following maternity leave.

Pregnancy and disabilities are both protected characteristics which means that pregnant and disabled employees have protection against unfair treatment, discrimination or dismissal at work. Mental ill health is considered a disability under the Disability Discrimination Act if it has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ negative effect on a person’s ability to do normal daily activities. Addressing all issues concerning perinatal mental health is a key priority of the Government.

Health care professionals involved in maternity care should follow National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidance for the recognition, assessment, care and treatment of mental health problems in women during pregnancy and the postnatal period (up to one year after childbirth) and in women who are planning a pregnancy. Women who know they are pregnant should contact their local maternity service for a full assessment of their health, risk factors and choices so that a personalised plan of care can be prepared. Midwives are also trained to identify women who may require additional support, including for mental health issues.

This Government has committed to providing an additional £75 million over the next five years for services to support women with mental ill health in the perinatal period.