Brief Report. A qualitative study of maternal mental health services in New Zealand: Perspectives of Māori and Pacific mothers and midwives

OBJECTIVES: Suicide is the leading cause of maternal death in New Zealand particularly amongst Māori and Pacific. We explored current maternal mental health (MMH) screening practices and supports. METHODS: Qualitative research included interviews and focus groups with maternity carers and mothers of Māori and Pacific descent. Thematic analysis used a general inductive approach. RESULTS: Both mothers and carers reported that MMH screening is ad hoc and discussed multilevel barriers that hamper screening and access to supports. CONCLUSION: There are gaps in MMH services, and service improvements need to be targeted at patient, provider, and systems levels.