What is the expected role of general hospital psychiatrists in perinatal mental health?

Abstract

A general hospital is a valuable place where a broad range of healthcare professionals can gather together and evaluate the conditions of pregnant women from various perspectives. What is the expected role of general hospital psychiatrists? To be specific, the following are indicated: understanding of drug therapy related to pregnancy and lactation; psychiatrists’ understanding of the child-rearing assistance system; educational efforts aimed at staff members of obstetrical departments; education on perinatal mental health for psychiatrists; collaboration with multi-occupation such as with obstetricians, neonatologists, midwives, public health nurses, and social workers.