Understanding Black Maternal Mental Health In The UK:

Findings from the Black Maternity Experiences Report.

Our latest report explores the mental health experiences of the women who took part in our last Black Maternity Experiences Survey. It looks at what happened when women experienced mental health difficulties, whether they were asked about how they were feeling, the support they received, and the barriers they faced in accessing care.

The findings reveal a significant gap between the mental health difficulties women experienced and the recognition and support they received. But they also show what good care can look like: when healthcare professionals listen, respond with compassion and create space for women to feel safe, understood and taken seriously.

Key Findings at a Glance:

  • 62% of women in our survey reported experiencing a mental health problem before, during or after pregnancy.

  • 71% experienced mental health difficulties during the postnatal period, compared with 66% during pregnancy.

  • 53% said they had never been asked about suicidal thoughts during their maternity care.

  • Only 53 women reported receiving a formal clinical diagnosis from a healthcare professional.

  • 88% said they had never seen a mental health midwife during their maternity care.

  • 61% were not referred or signposted to mental health support.

  • 56% were not told how to access emergency mental health services.

  • 34% described their overall mental health support experience as good

  • Women valued being asked about their mental health

  • Good care could be transformative with women feeling supported when professionals listened and proactively asked questions

Why this report matters:

Black women’s mental health is too often overlooked during pregnancy and after birth. This research brings their experiences into focus, showing where care is falling short and where better support is possible. It gives policymakers, healthcare professionals, and organisations the evidence they need to understand the gaps and create meaningful change.

This report keeps Black women’s experiences at the centre of the conversation.

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