Integrating perinatal mental healthcare into maternal and perinatal services in low and middle income countries

Key messagesOne in five women experience a perinatal mental health condition, but historical neglect has resulted in limited investment in service provision and research in this areaIntegration of perinatal mental health care into maternal and child health services through task sharing is a widely accepted solutionA number of factors hamper integration such as shortage and overload of health workers, lack of research on acceptability, feasibility and sustainability, and insufficient cultural adaptation of interventionsA comprehensive stepped-care model for perinatal mental health care can make integration more achievableMental and maternal health are historically disregarded public health areas that have only recently received appropriate attention in the past 20-30 years.12 In recognition of the detrimental effects of poor mental health, especially on women’s lives and caregiving capabilities, perinatal mental health is now gradually being included in policy and clinical practice considerations for maternal, newborn, and child health around the world.Pregnancy and the period…
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