New report first to outline economic impact of childbirth-related PTSD in the UK
Health care costs for women reporting childbirth-related PTSD were more than twice as high as those for women without symptoms during the period from six to 12 months after birth, according to a new report from City St George's, University of London, on the economic impact of postnatal PTSD on the NHS.
A new report from City, University of London has provided the first comprehensive analysis of the economic impact of postnatal PTSD in the United Kingdom. The study, launched at an All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) event on birth trauma, estimates that early prevention and treatment of traumatic births could save the NHS around £26 million annually.
Women who experience postnatal PTSD incur healthcare costs more than twice as high as those without symptoms within six to 12 months after giving birth. These women are also less likely to return to work within a year of childbirth, indicating potential long-term economic and employment consequences.
The research, conducted by the MAP Alliance research team, is based on tracking over 2,000 women in England and Scotland from pregnancy to two years after birth. The report calls for routine screening for PTSD during pregnancy and after childbirth, along with increased access to specialist mental health support. It also recommends implementing trauma-informed perinatal care to reduce the associated costs.
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