HV/Midwife confidentiality

[flowerbomb1982]

Hi am just wondering if anybody has any experience of a past history of depression and then becoming pregnant. I am concerned that my midwife or health visitor when visiting the house (post natally) will mention in front of my family or OH about my pmh of depression. Now my family and OH are aware that I have suffered etc and tried to help me in the past. My OH and his family are not ones for medication their culture etc etc, I cant be bothered to argue some people are just ignorant. I have taken medication so therefore I know it works. What I want to know is when the midwife or HV comes to my house will they question me about depression in front of my OH and/or family ? The questions that they have to ask about your past history etc. I have no problem mentioning past history but I would rather nobody knew I took medication. I know some people are probably going to say but you should tell your OH everything etc etc but I dont want to.

Do they have notes about you when they visit or are they going on the answers you give them to questions.

Thanks

[CashmereHoodlum]

I would speak to the MW and make sure it is on your notes not to ask you about this in front of anybody. They really ought to be discreet, but I was asked loads of questions about sex in front of my mother by the HV which created a lot of problems for me subsequently.

I should say, in front of my mother she asked loads of questions about sex. Most people would be asking questions if I had sex in front of my mother

[Oopla]

I have depression then pregnancy but would say that the midwives asked same questions as they did after my first baby when I didn't have that history on my notes. They are really keen to check your moods no matter what your history.

[bacon]

I have to say I was disgusted with my care (2009) with MV and HVs on my notes I made a tick next to depression yet at no time did they address this after birth and in particular a failed VBAC that I desperately wanted and my MW knew my pain. Yet she had no time for my tears or deep grieving for a terrible birth. My HV just asked me if I was ok and she just accepted that I was fine. When I look back now the pain I was in upsets me and really I could of been a risk to myself even though I had no feelings of harm or ending it I was truly in pieces for about 6 months.

I would say that some read the notes while others dont and I am sure they wouldnt mention it in public. But its up to you to address any feelings you have.

However, just because you have a history doesnt mean you'll get it. Most mums feel low after birth and especially with sleep depreviation.