New and expectant mums across the region reminded that its “OK not to be OK” A woman who experienced serious mental health problems during pregnancy and the early months of motherhood is urging other new and expectant mums who are struggling to reach out for support. Francesca Austen, from Flintshire, experienced heightened anxiety during pregnancy and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after the birth of her daughter Aderyn in 2019. Instead of enjoying the first few weeks of motherhood, she had difficulties bonding and started feeling resentment towards her newborn baby. The 29-year-old, from Mold, was supported by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board’s specialist Perinatal Mental Health Service, which has recently been expanded, with funding from the Welsh Government.