Many GPs are ill-equipped to help women who suffer depression or anxiety during and after pregnancy, a report warns today.
Researchers found that GP consultations with pregnant women and new mothers tend to be shorter than others.
Women, in turn, are afraid of admitting their distress to health professionals.
The report was published by the Royal College of GPs and the Centre for Mental Health.
It says many doctors do not know how to respond effectively or may lack confidence in their ability to get women timely access to psychological therapy services.
Dr Judy Shakespeare, from the college, said: "Mental illness during pregnancy or the first few months after giving birth can have a devastating and long lasting impact on entire families. Yet many women are reluctant to admit they need help because they are frightened of being stigmatised.
"Those who do seek help often find that the services provided are patchy and not tailored to their specific needs.
"Our aim is to ensure that all GPs have the knowledge, skills and confidence to effectively identify and treat pregnant women and new mothers who have depression and anxiety so that more women can make the most of what should be one of the happiest experiences of their lives."
Report author Lorraine Khan, associate director of the Centre for Mental Health, said: “Women and GPs paint a picture of mental health difficulties not getting picked up because of fear, lack of knowledge, lack of trust in the system and lack of confidence. Sometimes problems only come to light by chance.
"And many women only tell their GPs about their distress in a crisis – even at this point some remain unheard. When women do disclose, it is vital that GPs respond sensitively and work collaboratively with women to get help quickly that can make a difference to them and to their baby’s wellbeing."
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