Dorset service launched to help women through pregnancy fears

It'll also support those with birth trauma PTSD and suffering baby loss

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 3rd May 2023

A new specialist service has been set up in Dorset to support women experiencing pregnancy fears, trauma or losses.

Dorset HealthCare's launched the Maternal Mental Health Service (MMHS), during a national awareness week.

Dr Joanna Yilmaz is leading the new service from Dorset HealthCare

MMHS Consultant Clinical Psychologist Dr Joanna Yilmaz said:

“This much-needed new service fills a gap by focusing on those women with more complex needs, and those who may not qualify for our existing perinatal mental health support.

“It has no time constraints on support, which means that we can talk about baby loss and birth trauma years later if necessary.

“Women referred to the service can be seen in their own homes, online or at a location where they feel comfortable.

“We can also signpost carers, partners and families to other suitable support networks.”

The service focuses on:

  • Birth trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Moderate-to-severe Tokophobia (fear of childbirth)
  • Baby loss including miscarriages, IVF failure, stillbirth or neonatal death

The MMHS works closely with the established perinatal mental health service based in Bournemouth, as well as the Maternity Unit at Dorset County Hospital and St Mary’s Maternity Unit in Poole.

To access the service, speak to your GP or other health professional and ask them to make a referral.

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