New findings from Public Health Wales’ Time to Talk Public Health survey show overwhelming public support for improving health and well‑being support for women during the first year after pregnancy, whether following birth, miscarriage or any other pregnancy outcome.
The survey reveals that 78% of respondents believe it is very important that women receive dedicated support for their physical, mental and social well‑being during the first year post‑pregnancy.
More than half of respondents (58%) said the best time for healthcare professionals to have a well‑being conversation with women is during a dedicated NHS appointment specifically focused on women’s health. By comparison, 21% said such conversations should occur during child‑focused appointments (e.g. vaccinations), and 14% preferred this to happen during appointments arranged for another health issue.
The findings indicate a strong desire for structured, women‑centred care, rather than relying solely on postnatal interactions tied to infant health.
Nearly three‑quarters (73%) said post‑pregnancy health conversations should include a combination of planned topics (e.g. mental health, physical recovery, contraception, healthy behaviours), and space for women to raise issues most important to them
This supports a flexible, personalised approach to post‑pregnancy care.
The public identified several key professionals who should play major roles in supporting women after pregnancy:
- Health visitors – 80%
- Practice nurses – 69%
- Midwives – 68%
- GPs – 66%
- Additional support from community pharmacists also featured strongly
This reflects strong public confidence in community‑based primary care teams to support women’s recovery and well‑being.
Respondents highlighted several important areas of support:
- Mental health and well‑being – 79% (very important)
- Physical health – 69%
- Healthy behaviours – 56%
- Social well‑being – 54%
The findings demonstrate that the public recognise the need for holistic support, not just clinical or physical care.
The findings come from Public Health Wales’ Time to Talk Public Health national engagement panel, which enables residents across Wales to inform policy and practice on key public health issues.
The survey was carried out between 1 October and 4 November 2025 and included 1,418 people aged 16 and over living in Wales. Responses were weighted to ensure representation by age, sex and deprivation level.
Public Health Wales says the results reinforce the need for accessible, personalised, and proactive support for all women after pregnancy, including after miscarriage or other pregnancy outcomes.
Principal Public Health Practitioner at Public Health Wales, Bethan Jenkins, commented:
“These findings reflect a strong public backing for personalised, holistic support rather than a generalised approach.
“They also highlight the importance of creating space for meaningful health and well-being conversations at the right time.”
The insights will help shape future policy aimed at strengthening maternal health, reducing inequalities, and improving long‑term well‑being for women and families across Wales.
Image credit: iStock
