Designing, implementing and evaluating an evidence-based and trauma-informed mental health service integrated with a gynaecology service: a research protocol

Background There are high rates of co-morbidity between mental health difficulties and female reproductive system disorders such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, adenomyosis, and chronic pelvic pain. These conditions are associated with high levels of psychological distress and impaired quality of life. Many modern medical services are fragmented, impeding holistic care and under-treating illnesses that affect multiple body systems. There are high rates of unmet mental health needs in gynaecology populations and few services or innovations are designed to bridge this gap. In the Irish context, greater integration between physical and mental healthcare has been defined as a key priority of both the Sláintecare and Sharing the Vision policies. The current project aims to develop a framework for the integrated delivery of mental health care within gynaecology and provide the building blocks for an evidence-based model. This study aims to assess whether an evidence-based and trauma-informed mental health service integrated with existing women’s health services can be effective in identifying and improving healthcare outcomes for women. Methods This paper describes the protocol for a study examining the implementation of an integrated mental health and gynaecology service in an Irish maternity hospital. This project will examine the feasibility and acceptability of a tool to screen for mental health need and the impact of a service designed to meet those needs. Outcomes will include measures of depression, anxiety, pain and quality of life, as well as the acceptability of the service to women using the service, and the staff of the gynaecology services. Conclusion This study will examine the feasibility and the acceptability of an integrated mental health and gynaecology service, and its associated embedded screening tool. The findings will shape further interventions to address the gap in integrated mind-body services for women.