A qualitative study of stigma among women suffering postnatal illness

Abstract

Background: Stigma is known to exist in mental health and is extensively researched. However, little is known about the effect of stigma on women who experience a severe postnatal illness.

Aims: To consider whether or not women who are experiencing a severe postnatal illness and have been admitted to a mother and baby unit experience stigma.

Method: A qualitative study consisting of six semi-structured interviews were undertaken to gain an understanding of the women's experience of stigma and the women's perceptions of themselves as mothers.

Results: The findings suggested that stigma was felt both internally and externally. However the stigma did not always manifest itself in the way existing literature would suggest. Four main themes were identified as disclosure, access to services, feelings of being a bad mother, and label/diagnosis.

Conclusion: An underlying stigma within the health care organization leads to groups of health professionals lacking understanding of this severe and debilitating illness. Clearer pathways of access into services are required. The women found the label and diagnosis useful and felt that a higher profile for mental illness would help to eliminate stigma.

Declaration of interests: None.

Keywords:

• Stigma
• perinatal
• post-natal
• women's mental health
• qualitative study