Background: Various risk factors to perinatal mental health disorders have been described; however, there is a dearth of data on the perspectives of women themselves regarding what increases the risk of psychological distress. This qualitative study explores women's perceptions of factors that increase the risk of perinatal psychological distress.
Aim: The aim of this study was to elucidate women's perceptions of factors that increase the risk of perinatal psychological distress.
Methods: A qualitative design with an exploratory and descriptive approach is used. Women (N = 188) aged 18 to 45 years who self-report experiencing perinatal psychological distress complete an online survey.
Results: Perceived causes of perinatal psychological distress include: adverse experiences with childbirth and/or breastfeeding, negative attitudes of people close to the participant, financial and social challenges, health challenges, staff behavior in a maternity hospital, a challenging baby, family circumstances, and the new role as mother.
Conclusion: Women's perceived causes of perinatal psychological distress may allow for women-centered innovations in perinatal mental health care. The results highlight the need to train maternity staff regarding perinatal mental health and communication. These findings can serve as important guidelines on women-centered planning of innovations of perinatal mental health care. Interventions need to focus on the role of partners and others close to women so as to support the women during the perinatal period.
Keywords: patient-centered care; perinatal mental health; pregnancy & post-partum; trauma-informed care.