Date published: 15 January 2026
A heady mix of emotions and hormones means pregnancy and new parenthood can be a challenging time. When ‘challenging’ becomes ‘overwhelming’, the right support can make all the difference.
Rachel Rogan from Liverpool had managed her anxiety for more than ten years with medication but stopped taking it when she discovered she was pregnant. Three months into her pregnancy, she was struggling. After confiding in her midwife, she was referred to Mersey Care’s perinatal service which she says was, “the best thing that could have happened.”
The service provides support to anyone who is experiencing, or has a history of, severe mental health problems and is planning to have a baby, is pregnant, or has a child under the age of two.
I’ve always been a worrier and I felt I had this support network like a big umbrella, calming me and keeping me safe.
The perinatal consultant reassured Rachel that her dose of medication was safe to take during pregnancy and reviewed it regularly to put her mind at rest. As well as clinical advice and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, the team supported Rachel throughout her pregnancy and as a new mum to baby Oliver.
“Midwives and practitioners checked in with me regularly. Through highs and lows, they were always there when I needed someone to talk to.”
The team encouraged Rachel to meet other mums at their Compassionate Care Group.
“As a new mum, you often put yourself last but talking to others helped me realise I needed to take care of myself so I can look after Oliver.”
She was also encouraged to join a mums’ walking group, which boosted her physical and mental health.
“Getting out of the house, regular exercise and making new friends with people in the same boat, really helped to lift my mood.”
A nurse herself, Rachel is used to having to stay strong in difficult situations but thinks she would have struggled without the team.
Being Oliver’s mum is the best thing in the world but becoming a new parent can feel isolating at times. Now I’d tell anyone - don’t be afraid to ask for support. You’re not alone.
Walking and talking with others combines exercise, social connection and the calming effects of nature. Find a local group near you at Mama Fit UK.
More parent and baby sessions can be found below
One in five women will experience mental health problems during pregnancy or in the first year after birth. If left untreated it can have significant and lasting effects. Cheryl Finnigan, team manager of Liverpool and Sefton Specialist Perinatal Service, says, “Pregnancy is one of the biggest risks to mental health. Advice about the risks and benefits of medication, talking therapies and occupational therapy, are all part of the jigsaw of compassionate care and support we deliver, depending on what is needed and when by each individual family. We are here to help the whole family thrive.”
Get help from the perinatal team - visit our Specialist Perinatal Service page on our website.