Mental illness in pregnancy: midwives supporting women and safeguarding babies.

The relationship between parental mental illness and safeguarding concerns is well documented. The role of the midwife in supporting women with mental health problems can sometimes be a balancing act, especially when perinatal mental health services are few and far between. The midwife needs to be able to remain objective with regards to safeguarding and be proactive in instigating early help assessments. There should be organised joint working within a multi disciplinary team including social workers and psychiatric nurses which addresses the needs of both mother and baby. This can lead to a less problematic handover to health visiting services. Continuity of care and an open honest approach will be instrumental in providing a supportive relationship that doesn't lose sight of the baby.