Research Study: Women’s Experiences of Maternal Suicide Attempts During the Perinatal Period
The research conducted by King’s College London sheds light on the experiences of women who have attempted suicide during pregnancy or shortly after giving birth. This groundbreaking study identified three key themes that could help identify and support those at risk of maternal suicide.
Suicide is a leading cause of maternal death during the perinatal period, and nearly half of the participants in the study had attempted suicide during pregnancy. The interviews revealed a range of factors that affected the mental health of these women, including trauma, adversities, disillusionment with motherhood, and feelings of entrapment and despair.
One participant, Lauren, shared her experience of domestic abuse, while another, Marie, discussed her fear of experiencing post-partum psychosis again. The researchers hope that these findings will lead to increased awareness and support during the perinatal period to prevent future maternal suicides.
The study, now published in BMC Psychiatry, involved 11 women and birthing people in the UK who had self-reported suicide attempts during the perinatal period. The research aimed to understand the context and contributing factors surrounding these events and improve the care and support that women and families receive.
Health care professionals are urged to discuss mental health with new and expectant mothers, as every contact is an opportunity to provide compassionate and potentially lifesaving support. The research team worked closely with women with lived experience of perinatal mental health difficulties to shape the design and delivery of the study.
Overall, this research highlights the critical importance of addressing mental health issues in pregnant and postpartum women and implementing strategies to identify and support those at risk of maternal suicide. The findings from this study have the potential to save lives and improve the well-being of women and families during the perinatal period.
