Key Findings from the National Maternity Survey 2024

The latest National Maternity Survey, titled 'You & Your Baby 2024', conducted by the National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit (NPEU) at the University of Oxford, reveals concerning trends in postnatal mental health among new mothers in England. Published in early March 2026, the survey gathered responses from 3,728 women who gave birth in May 2024, achieving a 24% response rate through invitations sent six months postpartum via the Office for National Statistics birth register.

This diverse sample included 3 in 10 women from minority ethnic groups, 3 in 10 born outside the UK, and 2 in 10 living in the most deprived areas, providing a robust snapshot of maternity experiences across England. Strikingly, 3 in 10 reported experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) six months after birth – rates that remain elevated compared to pre-pandemic levels.

While over 8 in 10 women expressed satisfaction with antenatal and intrapartum care, satisfaction dropped to just over 7 in 10 for postnatal care, underscoring persistent gaps in support during the critical postpartum period.

What Constitutes Postnatal Mental Health Issues?

Postnatal mental health (PMH), also known as perinatal mental health when encompassing pregnancy, refers to a range of conditions affecting emotional wellbeing after childbirth. Common Perinatal Mental Illness (CPMI) includes postnatal depression (PND), affecting 10-15% of new mothers; anxiety disorders; and PTSD, often triggered by traumatic births. Postpartum psychosis, rarer at 1-2 per 1,000 births, requires urgent hospitalisation.

Symptoms span persistent sadness, irritability, sleep disturbances beyond newborn care, overwhelming anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or detachment from the baby. These differ from 'baby blues', which resolve within two weeks. Untreated PMH risks long-term impacts on mother-infant bonding, child development, and family dynamics, with MBRRACE-UK data showing 1 in 3 maternal deaths linked to mental health issues, including suicide.

Trends and Historical Context

The 2024 survey continues a series tracking maternity experiences since 2014. Postnatal mental health reporting has hovered around 25-30% since the pandemic, higher than the pre-2020 baseline of approximately 20%. Factors like COVID-19 isolation exacerbated vulnerabilities, and recovery remains slow.

Notably, 2 in 10 women in the 2024 cohort could not recall or were not asked about mental health at their 12-week booking appointment or postpartum, a missed opportunity for early intervention. This echoes prior surveys highlighting inconsistent screening.

Experts like Professor Fiona Alderdice, co-lead of the study, emphasise: "By capturing women's experiences throughout their maternity journey up to six months after birth, the survey informs policy and service planning in maternity and mental health care."

Risk Factors for New Mothers

Several evidence-based risk factors heighten PMH vulnerability. A prior history of mental illness triples risk; complicated or traumatic births contribute to PTSD in up to 4%; socioeconomic deprivation, as seen in 20% of survey respondents, correlates with poorer outcomes; and minority ethnic status often intersects with access barriers.

• Personal history: Depression or anxiety pre-pregnancy.
• Birth experience: Emergency caesareans, interventions.
• Social factors: Isolation, partner support lack, financial stress.
• Physical: Sleep deprivation, thyroid issues, anaemia.
• Demographic: Young age (<20), first-time motherhood.

NHS England identifies these in GP six-to-eight-week checks, now mandating screening for PND and PTSD.NHS guidance

Gaps in Screening and Support

The survey spotlights systemic issues: despite national guidelines, 20% missed mental health enquiries. Community Perinatal Mental Health (CPMH) teams, rolled out since 2016, serve only 30% of at-risk women, though linked to 20% fewer readmissions.

Access varies regionally; urban areas fare better, but rural and deprived regions lag. The Royal College of Psychiatrists estimates 85,000 annual PND cases, yet specialist services reach under half.

For careers advancing perinatal care, research jobs at UK universities like Oxford drive evidence-based improvements.

Impacts on Mothers, Babies, and Society

PMH profoundly affects families. Infants face delayed cognitive development, insecure attachments; mothers risk chronic illness, relationship strain. Economically, untreated cases cost £8.1 billion yearly in health, welfare, lost productivity.

Long-term, children of affected mothers show 1.5x higher MH risks by adolescence. The survey's deprived area overrepresentation amplifies intergenerational cycles.

NHS Perinatal Mental Health Services Overview

NHS England funds 42 CPMH teams targeting moderate-severe cases, aiming for 30,000 women annually. GP checks, specialist referrals, talking therapies (IAPT perinatal), and mother-baby units form the backbone.

• Universal screening at booking, 6-8 weeks.
• Specialist assessment within days for high-risk.
• Community support: home visits, peer groups.

Progress: 500 new roles needed per Anna Freud Centre; current stats show patchy coverage.NHS perinatal support

Expert Perspectives and Reactions

Dr Siân Harrison, NPEU Senior Social Scientist, highlights the survey's diversity: "We heard from women from a wide range of backgrounds, strengthening findings." Maternal Mental Health Alliance calls for urgent scaling, citing MBRRACE data.

Policymakers reference the 10 Year Health Plan for prevention-focused reforms. No major reactions to March 2026 release yet, but aligns with parliamentary focus on First 1000 Days.

Real-Life Stories from New Mothers

Case studies illuminate realities. Millie, 26, battled PND post-birth: "I realised it wasn't normal; therapy and meds helped bond with my son." Anika's postpartum psychosis led to inpatient care, but recovery via NHS mother-baby unit.

These echo survey gaps: delayed recognition, stigma. Peer support via PANDAS Foundation aids recovery.

Actionable Solutions and Recommendations

Address gaps through:

• Routine MH screening training for midwives.
• Expand CPMH teams nationwide.
• Digital tools for remote access.
• Partner involvement, community hubs.

NPEU urges policy alignment; integrate into full report.

Photo by Michael Coltman on Unsplash

Future Outlook and Government Commitments

The 10 Year Health Plan emphasises prevention, community care, tech integration. First 1000 Days mission targets Family Hubs for MH support. By 2029, aim full specialist access; NIHR funds research like NPEU's.

Optimism tempers urgency: sustained investment needed to halve PMH prevalence.

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