Vol. 509 No. 2
107 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will establish in-patient psychiatric services in maternity hospitals in order that patients suffering from severe post-natal depression can be cared for in the company of their babies and with others who have similar conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20071/99]
The provision of separate facilities in maternity hospitals for mothers suffering from post-natal depression is essentially an operational matter for the hospitals concerned.
I have had inquiries made of maternity hospitals and I am advised that the incidence of severe post-natal psychosis is relatively low and estimated at four to five cases per one thousand deliveries. I am assured that there are protocols in place to deal with post-natal depression. In most cases post-natal depression is treated on an out-patient basis. However, I understand that if the mother's depression warrants in-patient treatment the practice is that the mother is admitted to a psychiatric unit in a general hospital and, where possible, with her baby. I am not aware of particular difficulties in the provision of this service.
However, if the Deputy has a particular case in mind, she might bring it to my attention and I will refer it to the appropriate agency.
