Day 3 | Session 7 | Plenary | More than physical health: mental health in O&G

Substance use in pregnancy presents complex challenges at the intersection of obstetric care, addiction and mental health. Pregnancy can also be an empowering time for hapū wāhine, strengthening motivation and creating opportunities for meaningful change. 

This presentation will explore these challenges and opportunities, with a particular focus on methamphetamine use and practical approaches to assessment and management. It will consider how trauma, stigma and social adversity influence substance use and engagement with antenatal care. 

Emphasis will be placed on compassionate, culturally responsive care that builds on women’s strengths and aspirations, alongside harm reduction, evidence-based treatment and collaboration between maternity, addiction and mental health services to support women, pēpi and whānau throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period.

The management of chronic pain necessitates an integrated biopsychosocial approach. This presentation will examine the psychological modalities routinely utilized in chronic pain management, as well as the pathways through which psychological interventions integrate with and support other clinical disciplines.

Longitudinal studies show that women are 2-4 times more likely to experience depressive symptoms during perimenopause or early post menopause compared with other stages of life. 

In 2026 both ACOG and NICE updated their Guidelines on Menopause. ACOG advised that MHT may improve symptoms of depression and enhance the effect of antidepressant treatment and NICE suggested that hormone therapy could be considered to alleviate depressive symptoms. 

This talk will discuss the role of MHT and other modalities for women who experience mood disorders around menopause.