Feasibility of integrating maternal mental health services in the regular obstetrics and gynecological services: Experiences from a tertiary-level government hospital in India

Background Maternal mental health is neglected globally. No adequate maternal mental health services are available in India as well. Integration of mental health services into the regular antenatal and postnatal maternal care is important. The Obstetrics and Gynecology Department at the Government Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala, South India, runs a perinatal mental health clinic. Methods To understand the frequency of services, mental health concerns, psychosocial issues and interventions, the records of the mothers were manually analysed. Results The available records state that a total of 43745 screenings were conducted from September 2022 to March 2026. It was found that 30–40 new pregnant women/mothers were screened daily, and that 5–10 mothers were consulted in person for further psychosocial assessment and interventions in both IP and OP. It is found that 5–6% of the mothers reported suicidal ideas, and 10%-12% of mothers come to OP, and 10%-15% of IP mothers need consultation with a mental health professional and require medications and or psychosocial therapies. Various psychosocial issues were addressed, and interventions were provided. Conclusions Integration of maternal mental health services in the obstetrics and gynecology department is feasible.