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Women’s and multidisciplinary team members’ experiences of care and discharge from an Irish specialist perinatal mental health service: A multiperspectival interpretative phenomenological analysis
Date
2026-08-01
Abstract
Background: Perinatal mental health is a critical public health concern. Women experiencing moderate to severe perinatal mental health conditions often require specialist support. Discharge from specialist services is a potentially challenging time; however, literature examining service discharge remains limited. Understanding multiple stakeholder perspectives of specialist perinatal mental health services is essential for informing evidence-based improvements. Aim: To understand women’s and multidisciplinary team members' experiences of care and discharge from an Irish specialist perinatal mental health service. Methods: A multiperspectival interpretative phenomenological analysis study. Women (n = 6) who were discharged after receiving treatment from an Irish specialist perinatal mental health service and multidisciplinary team members (n = 6) working within this service participated in individual semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Findings: This paper presents a multiperspectival synthesis with four themes and subthemes: (1) In sanctuary, I return to myself, (2) Building strength through collaboration, (3) A tailored discharge, and (4) On the path forward. Women felt a sense of safety and connection during their care, marking a turning point from feelings of isolation and perceived judgement. Women advocated for person-centred, flexible discharge approaches. Postdischarge community support provided women with a sense of stability, continuity, and confidence. Conclusion: The service provided a place of sanctuary where women received advocacy support until they regained self-agency. Individualised discharge care planning can enhance consistent communication and facilitate a supported, coordinated transition of care. Expanding community support, equitable care, and a national mother and baby unit are essential for the progress of Irish services.
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Description
Publisher
Elsevier
Citation
Midwifery (159), 104835
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Noonan_2026_Women's.pdf
Adobe PDF, 1.24 MB
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Funding code
Funding Information
Sustainable Development Goals
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License
Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International