One in 20 new mothers has PTSD after childbirth, UEA report finds

A University of East Anglia report reveals thousands of UK women may have undiagnosed post-traumatic stress disorder after childbirth, with one in 20 new mothers affected. Researchers are calling for improved guidelines to help GPs provide better, evidence-based care. Lead researcher Dr Megan Foreman said current national guidance lacks practical advice on measuring severity, assessing risk, or deciding on specialist treatment. Symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety, and maternal suicide remains the leading cause of death in women up to a year after pregnancy. The report, published in the British Journal of General Practice, urges a validated assessment tool for routine postnatal checks and sensitive questioning. Campaigners highlight fragmented care and a lack of continuity, while new mothers like Chloe Mallett say many parents are unaware of available services.