Mental Health Midwives Service enhances support for families across Oxfordshire

Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (OUH) is marking Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week, Monday 4 to Sunday 10 May 2026, by raising awareness of postpartum psychosis, a rare but serious mental health condition, and by celebrating the work of our specialist Mental Health Midwives Service.

With around 25% of all pregnancies involving a mental health component, OUH’s Mental Health Midwives Service supports approximately 1,400 women each year who are experiencing anxiety, low mood, or other emotional wellbeing challenges.

The service plays a vital role in strengthening emotional wellbeing support for pregnant women across Oxfordshire, ensuring mental health is recognised as a core part of maternity care.

Sara Goves, Matron for Maternal Mental Health, explained:

"As part of routine care, all women are asked about their mental health during pregnancy and after birth, helping to identify those who may benefit from additional support at the earliest opportunity.

"Working in partnership with wider maternal mental health services across Oxfordshire, the team provides expert guidance while enabling community midwives to deliver personalised, compassionate care. Support includes individualised care planning, specialist birth plans, and access to peer support groups."

Service users have praised the Mental Health Midwives Service for the difference it has made to their maternity journey. 

"I always felt I could be honest with them, and they provided me with compassion, empathy and reassurance."

"We can't thank the team enough for stepping in and supporting us the way they did during the pregnancy and birth."

“The mental health midwives provided us with an emotionally safe space where I could release my fear and trust the professionals surrounding us."

Raising awareness of postpartum psychosis

Postpartum psychosis can develop shortly after childbirth.  Symptoms may include confusion, extreme mood changes, and altered perceptions of reality. Crucially, around 50% of women who experience postpartum psychosis have no prior psychiatric history, highlighting the importance of early recognition and awareness.

To mark Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week, the team is taking part in the Action on Postpartum Psychosis' 'Miles for Mums and Babies 2026' challenge throughout May. Together, they aim to walk 1,836 miles – the equivalent of travelling from the Women’s Centre at the John Radcliffe Hospital to the nearest mother and baby inpatient unit in Winchester and back, multiplied by 16, representing the number of women who require this specialist support each year.

Milica Redfearn, Director of Midwifery at OUH, said: "By enhancing collaboration between specialist services and community midwives, OUH's Mental Health Midwives Service is improving outcomes for families and ensuring joined‑up, supportive care across the county. Thank you to the team for their support in providing the compassionate and outstanding care we strive for, and good luck with the 'Miles for Mums and Babies 2026' challenge."