Black mothers are over twice as likely to be admitted to hospital with perinatal mental illnesses than their white counterparts, a Guardian analysis of NHS figures shows, with the racial disparity being described as “horrifying”.
The figures showed black women were more than three times more likely than their white counterparts to be admitted to hospital for severe instances of perinatal mental illness and behavioural disorders associated with the six weeks immediately after childbirth.
The figures further reveal the stark racial disparities in maternal healthcare, with black women being almost four times more likely to die in childbirth than their white counterparts.
Birte Harlev-Lam, the executive director midwife of the Royal College of Midwives, said: “The provision of perinatal mental health services across the UK and particularly in areas of high social deprivation, where often women need the most support, for too long has been a postcode lottery.
Action is also needed nationally with a multi-agency approach to better support black, Asian and minority ethic women who are suffering with perinatal mental health issues.
“However, we know there is more to do, including to address racial disparities, and we will continue to work closely with NHS Trusts to ensure safer, more personalised and equitable maternity care for all women, babies and families.
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