Reducing postnatal morbidity

There is evidence from large observational studies that women experience a range of physical and psychological health problems after birth, many of which do not resolve within the postnatal period. The current content, duration and definitions of postnatal care are not appropriate to meet the increasingly complex health and social needs of women giving birth in the UK today. Despite evidence of how the revisions to the content and timing of care could improve the clinical and cost effectiveness of universal NHS postnatal services, and positive policy support for evidence based care, there is evidence that postnatal standards are declining.