July 16, 2025
Page Contents
Book a Consultation
Maternal Mental Health Support During Pregnancy and After Birth
We provide evidence-based treatment for a wide range of conditions during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure where to start, we’re here to support you with warmth, understanding, and expert care.
- Fast access to leading perinatal psychiatrists in London
- Personalised treatment for perinatal depression, anxiety, OCD, and trauma
- Online and in-person appointments available
- Safe, evidence-based medication guidance for pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Specialist support for both birthing and non-birthing partners
What is perinatal psychiatry?
You may have come across the terms ‘maternal mental health’ and ‘perinatal mental health’ in relation to this subject. Both refer to a woman’s psychological well-being during the crucial period from trying to conceive up to two years after childbirth. This period is often called perinatal and includes:
- Prenatal or antenatal mental health: before conception and throughout pregnancy.
- Postnatal mental health: after giving birth.
- Perinatal mental health: during pregnancy and up to two years after birth. The perinatal phase involves significant hormonal shifts that can influence mental health.
“Trying to have a baby, and then pregnancy and childbirth can be extremely challenging for many of us. This period of time comes with the highest highs and the lowest lows. We’ll often swing between these states for seemingly no good reason.” - Dr Alice Ashby, Consultant Psychiatrist and Associate Medical Director at the London Psychiatry Clinic.
Having someone to listen and talk to can be very reassuring.
Our perinatal psychiatrists provide expert diagnosis and treatment for conditions such as:
- Perinatal depression
- Postpartum anxiety and panic attacks
- Postnatal OCD and intrusive thoughts
- Postpartum psychosis
- Birth-related trauma and PTSD
- Relapse of existing mental health conditions
- Fertility-related distress, miscarriage, and pregnancy loss
We offer compassionate, evidence-based care to help you recover and feel like yourself again.
Meet our Perinatal Specialists
Dr Gertrude Seneviratne, Adult & Perinatal Psychiatrist
With over 25 years of experience in adult and perinatal psychiatry, including an OBE in 2023, Dr Seneviratne offers a deeply holistic, patient-centred approach. Her services range from preconception planning through postnatal support, with expertise in hormone balance using bioidentical treatments.
Dr Paula Murphy, Consultant Psychiatrist
Dr Murphy has over two decades of clinical experience and specialises in women’s health. She understands the anxiety and nervousness about seeking help, especially if you’ve felt unheard or disregarded in the past.
Dr Alice Ashby, Consultant Psychiatrist & Associate Medical Director
Dr Ashby has deep expertise in fertility and maternal mental health. She has extensive experience supporting women through some of the most difficult times in their lives, from those who are planning a pregnancy, or going through IVF, as well as with those who are pregnant. She combines her personal experiences as a mother with clinical expertise to provide the highest quality of care.
Dr Shetal Patel, Clinical Psychologist
Dr Patel offers compassionate care to people experiencing difficulties during the perinatal period, such as birth trauma, emotional overwhelm, anger, or struggles adjusting to parenthood. She also offers specialist support for non-birthing partners.
Preconception Planning
Preconception planning helps you prepare mentally and emotionally for pregnancy, which is especially vital for women with existing mental health issues.
During these visits, we review your mental health history and consider how pregnancy might affect it. If you're on medication, our specialists will discuss its safety during pregnancy. We’ll also explore strategies to prevent relapse, such as for women with bipolar disorder, who are at greater risk postpartum. Early planning can significantly lower this risk.
Support for postpartum depression
Postnatal depression is one of the most common mental health conditions after childbirth. It affects around 1 in 10 women in the UK. Many experts believe the true figure is even higher due to underreporting. It can develop days, weeks, or even months after birth.
You may feel low, tearful, irritable, or distant from your baby or partner. Some women feel guilty, overwhelmed, or worry they’re not a “good enough” parent. These feelings can be distressing, but they are common and treatable.
Our perinatal psychiatrists offer evidence-based treatment plans tailored to your unique experience. This may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both. This will always be discussed to be in line with your goals, preferences, and, if relevant, plans for breastfeeding.
Dr Shetal Patel, Clinical Psychologist, says, “I want you to know that you are not alone, and struggling during this period does not mean you are failing. All too often, we ‘keep going’ or ‘soldier on’ through difficult times, and accessing support can be daunting. If you’re reading this and considering accessing support, this is a sign of your commitment to yourself and to those that matter to you.”
Support for postnatal anxiety
Postnatal anxiety can include racing thoughts, panic attacks and excessive worry about your baby. You might also notice physical symptoms like heart palpitations or breathlessness.
We provide support to help calm your nervous system and reduce anxious thinking.
Treatment for postpartum OCD and intrusive thoughts
Many new parents experience unwanted or disturbing thoughts. When these thoughts become persistent and distressing, it may be postpartum OCD. Common themes include fears of harming the baby or contamination worries.
We offer specialist care for perinatal OCD using approaches such as CBT and medication where appropriate.
Treatment for postpartum psychosis
Postpartum psychosis is a rare mental health condition that can begin within days or weeks of giving birth. It may include delusions, hallucinations, confusion, or manic symptoms.
Our psychiatrists provide crisis support and a compassionate treatment plan.
Support for prenatal depression and anxiety
Mental health during pregnancy can be just as challenging as after birth. You may feel overwhelmed, detached, or emotionally flat.
Some women feel very anxious or have panic attacks during pregnancy. They may experience excessive worry about their baby’s health, the birth, or becoming a mother.
Getting help early in pregnancy can help you feel more supported before your baby is born.
Perinatal mental health and past trauma
For some women, the perinatal period can bring up unresolved trauma. This can be from childhood, previous pregnancies, or other life experiences. You may feel triggered, unsafe, or unsure why you’re reacting so strongly.
We take a trauma-informed approach. We'll help you process past experiences while supporting your current well-being.
Support after miscarriage, pregnancy loss, or fertility treatment
Grief, anger, and trauma following miscarriage or loss deserve compassionate attention. We provide space to explore these complex emotions. We're also here to support your mental health following IVF or fertility treatment.
Bioidentical Hormone Treatments
Dr Gertrude Seneviratne is one of the UK’s leading experts in perinatal psychiatry.
Her work often focuses on the impact of hormones on mood, using a combination of therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and, where appropriate, bioidentical hormone therapy.
“Sometimes after birth, we see low levels of progesterone contributing to mood symptoms. Where appropriate, I’ll look at hormone profiles and support balance alongside traditional treatments.” – Dr Gertrude Seneviratne
Our approach to perinatal mental health
We understand that the perinatal period can be a time of joy, but also uncertainty and vulnerability. Our psychiatrists take a non-judgmental approach that puts you at the centre.
We offer:
- In-depth psychiatric assessments tailored to the perinatal context
- Evidence-based treatments, including medication, therapy, or both
- Sensitive discussions about the safety of antidepressants in pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Psychotherapy for perinatal OCD, anxiety, and trauma
- Ongoing support to help you feel stable, connected, and confident as a parent
For more tips and insights, visit our maternal mental health blog.
Treatment goals
Treatment is tailored to your individual needs and may include:
- Reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or distress
- Addressing intrusive thoughts or compulsive behaviours
- Supporting emotional bonding with your baby
- Managing sleep, stress, and relationships
- Exploring the impact of past trauma or life events
- Planning for long-term mental well-being after birth
Antidepressants during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Deciding whether to take antidepressants during pregnancy or breastfeeding can be difficult. We can help you decide whether antidepressants are right for you during this time. Where appropriate, we will discuss alternatives or low-risk options. We always involve you in shared decision-making. Our discussions will be tailored to your symptoms, history, and concerns.
Why choose private perinatal psychiatry in London?
At London Psychiatry Clinic, we offer fast access to highly experienced perinatal psychiatrists. Many patients come to us after struggling to access services, or feeling misunderstood in previous care.
We provide:
- No long waiting lists - get support when you need it
- A multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists and therapists
- A warm, discreet, and friendly environment
- Online and in-person sessions to suit your needs
- Ongoing support throughout pregnancy and beyond
Book a consultation
If you're struggling with your mental health during pregnancy or after birth, you are not alone. We’re here to support you with expert care, every step of the way.
Or email us at enquiries@londonpsychiatry.clinic
FAQs
What’s the difference between baby blues and postpartum depression?
Baby blues are common and typically last a few days. If your low mood or anxiety continues for more than two weeks, it could be postpartum depression.
Can I take antidepressants while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Yes, many medications are considered safe. Our psychiatrists will talk you through your options, including the latest evidence and safety data.
Do I need a perinatal psychiatrist or therapist?
You might need a psychiatrist if your symptoms are more severe or if you’re experiencing suicidal or intrusive thoughts. Psychiatrists are also the better option if you may need medication. A therapist can be helpful if you're looking for emotional support, coping strategies, or talk therapy. In some cases, both can work together to support your recovery.
Do I need a referral to see a perinatal psychiatrist?
No, you don’t need a referral. You can self-refer and book directly with our clinic. If you prefer, we can also liaise with your GP, midwife, or therapist with your consent.
