Development and implementation of a clinical care pathway for perinatal mental health in Belgium (PMH-project)

Mental problems during the perinatal period are associated with a range of negative consequences such as preterm birth, mother-infant interactional deficits and negative infant developmental outcome. Research indicates that perinatal mental health problems are highly prevalent (20%). In Flanders however, a large majority is currently not being detected nor getting the appropriate treatment.
To address this shortage this project developed a care pathway, including a risk taxation instrument, a screening tool, a clinical guideline, a step-by-step implementation guideline and a training pack. We are currently supporting other hospitals and organisations spread over Flanders, to implement the care pathway perinatal mental health.