Screening and assessment
Mental health in pregnancy and after birth (SIGN)
The aim of screening is to identify women/birthing parents who may benefit from help with their distress or symptoms, or who need further assessment for a possible psychiatric condition. All screening tools should be used along with clinical judgement.
In Scotland services should follow the Scottish Perinatal Mental Health Care Pathways 
for those identified as needing additional support.
All health professionals providing care in the perinatal period should receive training in parent-centred communication skills, psychosocial assessment and inclusive care.
The administration of a screening tool is part of a multicomponent approach that must involve clinical judgement and clear protocols for further assessment of women who screen positive and appropriate care pathways.
Clinical supervision of healthcare professionals administering the tool is recommended, as part of standard supportive clinical supervision, until the healthcare professional gains confidence and expertise.
At every antenatal or postnatal visit, enquire about the woman/birthing parent’s emotional wellbeing, and the wellbeing of their partner if appropriate.
Provide parents in the perinatal period with support for integrating healthy behaviours in their daily lives, and where appropriate access to evidence-based physical activity, healthy eating and/or sleep programmes. For birth partners this may entail signposting to sources of further support. See the shared decision-making toolkit.
Provide all women/birthing parents with information about the importance of enquiring about and seeking support with any mental health problems that might arise across the perinatal period.
If a woman/birthing parent agrees, provide information to and involve their significant other(s) in discussions about their emotional wellbeing and care throughout the perinatal period.