Events launched to help mental health in pregnancy

Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust said 20% of women experience mental health issues during and after pregnancy

A mental health trust is running a series of events to support pregnant women and new parents.

Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust will host free drop-in sessions at libraries across the county.

The trust said it was a chance to meet other parents and find out about specialist services available.

Anthony Mobee-Dumi, from the trust, said: "More than 20% of women will experience mental health difficulties during and after pregnancy."

He also said 10% of fathers "will struggle with their mental health during their partner's pregnancy and in early parenthood".

The events start with a walk around the grounds of Northampton's Delapre Abbey.

The trust has run previous walks at Delapre Abbey

The trust's Specialist Perinatal Mental Health team will then visit libraries in Kettering, Towcester, Rushden, Oundle, Wellingborough, Weston Favell, Corby, Desborough and Moulton.

The team provides assessment and treatment for women who are experiencing, or have an increased risk of a health condition during pregnancy and up to 12 months after having a baby.

Counselling is available for those who have previously experienced a severe mental illness and would like to plan a pregnancy, the trust said.