Guidance on using MORS in practice

The NICE antenatal and postnatal mental health clinical management and service guidance includes the following recommendations:

1.6.1 [that] assessment and diagnosis of a suspected mental health problem in pregnancy and the postnatal period should include …. the mother-baby relationship

1.9.12 Recognise that some women with a mental health problem may experience difficulties with the mother–baby relationship. Assess the nature of this relationship, including verbal interaction, emotional sensitivity and physical care, at all postnatal contacts. Discuss any concerns that the woman has about her relationship with her baby and provide information and treatment for the mental health problem. [new 2014]

1.9.13 Consider further intervention to improve the mother–baby relationship if any problems in the relationship have not resolved. [new 2014]

https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg192

Attachment theory includes the mother’s representation of her infant/child as a vital part of her ‘working model of the child’.

Research is confirming that a mother’s mental representation has a significant effect on how she cares for her child, with implications for child development outcomes.

The MORS tools are short, easy to use, score and interpret, and offer a unique way for perinatal health practitioners to assess this core aspect of the mother-child relationship.