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The RCOG Consumers' Forum Public Lecture on Motherhood and the Mind is presented by Dr Dr Ian Jones.

This was captured in December 2009.

Overview

In December 2009 Dr Ian Jones, Senior Lecturer in Perinatal Psychiatry at Cardiff University presented a lecture on behalf of the RCOG Consumers' Forum entitled ‘Motherhood and the mind: insights into mental illness in pregnancy, childbirth and afterwards'. Aimed chiefly at members of the public, this lecture discusses the controversial and complicated relationship between childbirth and mood disorders.

Dr Ian Jones says, "The link between mental illness and childbirth has been noted for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Episodes occurring at this time are of huge importance as suicide is a leading cause of maternal death in the UK. Why then are so few resources devoted to mental health in antenatal or postnatal services? Understanding more about these episodes is vital as we need to identify women at risk and ensure that they and their families receive the help they need."

Mrs Gillian Baker, RCOG Consumers' Forum Chair, says, "Mental health is a fundamental part of women's health and wellbeing during pregnancy and birth, yet there remains a lack of awareness about pregnancy-related mental health issues, such as postnatal depression. Women need relevant and up-to-date information about mental health in pregnancy, sources of support, and a range of treatment options."

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