The Antenatal and postnatal mental health quality standard has been published on the NICE website.

The following quality statements are particularly pertinent to health visitors:

• Statement 4. Women are asked about their emotional wellbeing at each routine antenatal and postnatal contact.
• Statement 5. Women with a suspected mental health problem in pregnancy or the postnatal period receive a comprehensive mental health assessment.
• Statement 6. Women referred for psychological interventions in pregnancy or the postnatal period start treatment within 6 weeks of referral.

Dr Cheryll Adams, Director of the iHV said:

“The Institute really welcomes this quality standard, as we are sure our members will.  It can provide a basis for audit to drive up the quality of services.”