Insight report: Understanding lived experience of suicidality during the perinatal period
In this insight report, carried out by Sands and Tommy’s Maternity Consortium, as part of the VCSE Health and Wellbeing Alliance, we examine the lived experiences of suicidality during the perinatal period and the systemic barriers to effective suicide prevention. Drawing on interviews with 49 women and birthing people who experienced suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or suicide attempts during pregnancy or up to one year after birth, the report explores how trauma, domestic abuse, substance use, and social care involvement intersect with perinatal mental health.
Our findings indicate that stigma, fragmented referral pathways, and inconsistent professional responses can leave women feeling isolated and unsafe to disclose their needs. Participants described missed opportunities for early intervention, a lack of trauma-informed care, and the profound impact of judgment and fear of child removal on help-seeking. Conversely, examples of compassionate, consistent support demonstrate how timely, empathetic care can reduce risk and promote recovery.
The report concludes with recommendations for national policymakers, healthcare providers, and Integrated Care Systems to improve suicide prevention in the perinatal period. These include co-produced training for all professionals, better education for families, and evaluation of referral pathways to ensure timely, holistic, and trauma-informed support.
Read more about the Maternity Consortium’s previous work: VCSE Health and Wellbeing Alliance Resource Library
