That is excellent news Kad (the blood test results). I am sorry that the doctor that you saw sounded extremely dismissive and unhelpful. Unfortunately, many partners and couples in the situation you are in face the same challenges.
I would also consider speaking to your doctor or calling up your states Mental Health Hotline and asking for a contact number for the Perinatal mental health teams/services.
Please enquire about SAFE START / Supporting Families Early programs. In NSW we have the SAFE START Health policy initiative, aiming to improve the health outcomes of NSW families. Emotional and psychological care are included as a routine part of antenatal and postnatal care (together known as perinatal care) and identify early any family social and mental health vulnerabilities in pregnancy and the early postnatal period. Every family choosing to receive care from Maternity Services and Child and Family Health Services will be offered the chance to talk about social and psychological factors which may be affecting them during the perinatal period. Midwives and Child and Family Health Nurses include some questions about mental health and social circumstances as part of routine assessment and care of every patient.
Women and families may choose to not participate in this discussion. However, research has shown that most women find this type of care very supportive during the perinatal period. When vulnerabilities are identified, options for support are discussed with and offered to the family. As well, some more complicated family situations are confidentially discussed with a larger specialist group of clinicians, who may suggest additional ways to support the family (called the SAFE START meeting). The aim is to offer families access to more expertise, provide coordinated care to families from all Services that focuses on family needs and enhances family strengths.
Hope this helps and let me know if you need any other information.
We are always here to support you.
Nick.
