Women's experiences of specialist perinatal mental health services: the significance of therapeutic interpersonal relationships with staff

Abstract

Aim of review: To systematically identify, appraise, and synthesise qualitative evidence exploring women’s experiences of specialist perinatal mental health services (SPMHS). To identify factors which influence women’s perceptions of their care and treatment from SPMHS and identify any gaps in current knowledge warranting further investigation.

Search and review methodology: A qualitative evidence synthesis with thematic analysis was used to explore the research questions of this review. Search terms were established using the PEO Framework. A systematic literature search of five databases: Medline (OVID), EMBASE (Elsevier), PsycINFO (EBSCO), CINAHL (EBSCO) and Scopus (Elsevier), grey literature searching, and backward citation, identified a total of 1035 papers of which sixteen met inclusion criteria. Methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) tool. The GRADE-CERQual approach was used to assess the confidence in synthesised review findings. This review undertook a secondary analysis of published literature; therefore, ethical approval was not required.

Findings: Twelve of the sixteen included studies of this review reported the significance of therapeutic interpersonal relationships with staff on women’s experience and perception of SPMHS care and treatment. Feeling understood and respected by staff was important to women. The relationship provided a safe space in which women felt listened to, comforted, and supported. The consistency and sensitivity shown by staff during women’s SPMHS care resulted in a positive service experience.

Conclusion and impact: Therapeutic interpersonal relationships developed with staff in SPMHS were significant and meaningful to women and positively impacted their mental health recovery and perception of services. Sensitive and collaborative care that is provided to meet women’s individual needs can promote positive SPMHS experience.