Routine screening for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among expectant and new mothers could save the National Health Service (NHS) up to £26 million each year, according to a study by City St George’s, University of London. The research found that approximately 5% of women experience clinical levels of PTSD after childbirth, yet fewer than half receive referrals to mental health support. Women who develop PTSD after giving birth incur nearly double the healthcare costs compared to those who do not, highlighting the potential savings from early identification and treatment. The financial impact of birth-related PTSD is likely even greater when considering its long-term effects. Women with PTSD are less likely to return to work within a year of giving birth, which can affect both their income and the economy. One mother described how her PTSD left her unable to return to work due to fears of something bad happening to her child. Another shared that she struggled with PTSD, flashbacks, and depression for over a year and a half before seeking help, as she received no support in the hospital or afterward. Kim Thomas, chief executive of the Birth Trauma Association, said the findings should act as a "wake-up call" for the government and healthcare providers. She urged further investigation into the broader costs of birth trauma. The report recommends routine PTSD screening during pregnancy and after childbirth, along with better training for healthcare staff to recognize and manage the condition. Susan Ayers, co-author of the report and a professor of maternal and child health, emphasized the need for action to reduce the ongoing costs of health services for women and their babies. She said that preventing traumatic births and implementing regular screening and treatment for PTSD could benefit families and reduce healthcare costs. Earlier this year, the UK government announced plans to appoint a national maternity commissioner following a review led by Baroness Valerie Amos. The review highlighted repeated failures in NHS maternity care, including women not being listened to or believed, and concerns about fragmented, inconsistent care and systemic racism within maternity services. The Department for Health and Social Care has not yet commented on the recent study.