Perinatal and Women's Mental Health

St John of God Health Care has a strong commitment towards advancing research in the field of Perinatal Mental Health.

This research provides us with important information about the nature of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and other emotional health issues experienced during pregnancy and following birth.

Research efforts are particularly strong at St John of God Hospital Burwood. The Perinatal and Women’s Mental Health Unit was established in 2009 and is led by Professor Marie-Paule Austin, in partnership with St John of God Health Care and the University of New South Wales.

Research conducted by Professor Austin and her team will provide us with important information about factors that underpin the mental health of women, as well as the nature of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and other emotional health issues experienced by mothers during pregnancy and following birth. The research aims to inform the development of evidence-based interventions and to promote and improve mental health outcomes for women and their families.