Abstract
Background Suicide has been found to be the leading cause of maternal death in the UK and has since been reclassified as a ‘direct’ cause of maternal death, with rates remaining unchanged since 2003. Aim To examine the literature and consider what midwives can do to reduce the rates of maternal suicide. Methods Qualitative and quantitative research were included into this literature review. Research from 2003-2017 was accessed via a university database. Findings Three key themes became apparent: the characteristics associated with women dying from suicide, risk factors, and the attitudes and perceptions of midwives and effective screening. Conclusion Suicide has devastating consequences for the woman, her family and her community. Every step must be taken to reflect on and improve midwifery practice, to finally begin reducing rates.
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