Preconception care in mental health services: planning for a better future. (April 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Catalao, Raquel; Mann, Sue; Wilson, Claire; Howard, Louise M.
• Is Part Of: British journal of psychiatry. Volume 216:Number 4(2020)
• Page Start: 180
• Page End: 181
• Publication Date: 2020-04
• Subjects: Preconception, -- perinatal psychiatry, -- comorbidity, -- policy, -- pregnancy planning; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; Psychology, Pathological -- Periodicals; 616.89005
• DOI: 10.1192/bjp.2019.209
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1250

Abstract

Summary: It is increasingly recognised that the preconception period is a window of opportunity to intervene to improve outcomes for women and the next generation. The importance of preconception mental health and comorbidity problems has not traditionally been taken into account by policy makers or mental health service providers. We argue that by addressing preconception physical and mental health in men and women, medical health professionals could improve health outcomes across the whole life course.