Thousands of women across the UK develop undiagnosed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following childbirth each year, according to new research. The study, published in a leading medical journal, estimates that at least 15,000 women annually in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are affected, with the true figure potentially higher.
The findings, from an evidence review by doctors at the University of East Anglia’s medical school, highlight a gap in maternal mental health care. Many general practitioners (GPs) reportedly mistake PTSD symptoms for postnatal depression, which can result in women receiving unsuitable treatment, such as antidepressants, instead of more effective psychological therapies.
Undiagnosed mental ill health in new mothers has been linked to relationship problems, long-term suffering, and an increased risk of suicide. The research is the first expert attempt to quantify diagnosed and undiagnosed cases of childbirth-related PTSD in the UK, as the NHS does not collect these figures. Up to one in 16 mothers may develop the condition, often after a traumatic birth experience.
Dr. Megan Foreman, the lead author and a GP, noted that based on the 2025 live birthrate for England and Wales, and the fact that less than 50% of women with postnatal PTSD symptoms are referred for specialist support, a UK figure exceeding 15,000 women is justifiable. The Royal College of GPs president, Prof Victoria Tzortziou Brown, acknowledged that the six-week postnatal check is often insufficient for adequately assessing a mother's mental health, as symptoms can overlap with other conditions and may not appear for months.