The role of the health visitor in the promotion of maternal perinatal psychological wellbeing

Abstract

This review and synthesis of the literature investigates how health visitors contribute to the promotion and protection of maternal perinatal psychological wellbeing. Following systematic searches nine studies were critically appraised and the findings discussed. Social support, self-efficacy and preparedness emerged as themes from the literature and were found to be protective factors that influence the transition to motherhood and, subsequently, psychological wellbeing. Health visitors promote these protective factors through provision of the universal service; therefore recognition of the ways in which such promotion is achieved can enhance practice and increase maternal resilience. Focusing on wellbeing, rather than mental illness, will ensure health visiting interventions and approaches are in keeping with the profession's principles of health promotion, prevention and early intervention.