Some scheduled checks tend to stand out:
Some people may receive genetic testing results early in the second trimester. For most, these results are reassuring, but for some they may reveal upsetting information about the viability of the pregnancy or the health of the fetus. These tests may also include the sex of the fetus and other details.
Mental health assessment
Mental health assessments are a routine part of good prenatal care and can help identify concerns early, before symptoms become more severe. This could be as simple as asking questions such as:
- How are you feeling?
- How are you coping?
- How are you sleeping?
- Do you have any concerns about how you’re feeling?
However, many people are not routinely asked about their mental health during pregnancy. Limited appointment time, lack of training and difficulties accessing referral pathways can make some healthcare providers hesitant to raise these concerns. If your care provider does not ask questions about your emotional or mental health during this time, it’s worth bringing it up with them.
If signs of emotional distress or mental health challenges arise, providers may use a brief, validated screening tool such as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), which helps identify symptoms of depression and anxiety. If this isn't offered, you can ask your provider for it.
If you don't yet have prenatal care
If you don't yet have a doctor or midwife providing prenatal care, talk with your primary care provider or self-refer using one of the options below.
In Newfoundland and Labrador, a primary care provider is usually a family doctor or nurse practitioner with a Family Care Team. If you currently do not have a primary care provider, you can request one through Patient Care Connect NL [1]. They’ll ask if you’re pregnant and will prioritize connecting you with a primary care provider as soon as possible.
Your primary care provider may continue to follow you through your pregnancy, birth and postpartum. However, they will also need to refer you to another healthcare provider who specializes in prenatal care, birth and postpartum. Here in Newfoundland and Labrador, the options are:
Talk with your primary care provider to help inform your decision about which option is best for you.
References
This article was developed using sourced educational content from Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Trainings (CPMHT), and informed by the collective knowledge and expertise of CPMHT professionals and Karen Clarke, BA, MSW, RSW, Doula (Open Book Doula, Counselling and Consulting Services), as well as the following cited research and clinical practice guidelines:
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders: a clinical guide.” Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) (2024). Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC).
Guideline no. 454: identification and treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders." Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada 46 (2024): 102696.
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