Sheba Medical Center Opens Israel’s First Psychiatric Ward for Pregnant and Postpartum Women with Babies
Sheba Medical Center in Tel Hashomer has launched Israel’s first dedicated psychiatric inpatient ward for women in late pregnancy and new mothers up to six months postpartum, allowing mothers to be hospitalized alongside their babies. The 14-bed unit, part of Sheba’s Hava Center for Women’s Health, is the largest of its kind worldwide and aims to address acute mental health crises during a sensitive period often marked by joy but also vulnerability. The ward accepts women from across Israel and can accommodate a family member to stay with the mother and infant.
Dr. Vered Bar, director of the Hava Center, explained that one in five women during pregnancy or postpartum experience mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, psychosis, or eating disorders. While most receive community care, some require hospitalization. Until now, women needing psychiatric admission around childbirth were placed in general mixed-gender psychiatric wards, often separated from their babies, which research shows can have long-term negative effects on infant development.
The new ward offers integrated care focusing on the mother’s mental health, mother-infant bonding, and family support. Dr. Bar emphasized the emotional shock families face when a joyous event turns into a crisis, noting the importance of maintaining family connections and providing a safe, supportive environment. The ward operates on a "balanced home" model, reducing hierarchy between staff and patients, with open access to common areas and involvement in daily activities like cooking and laundry.
The Hava Center, established in 2007 and expanded over the years, now includes outpatient clinics, day treatment for mother and baby, and virtual home hospitalization. The inpatient ward was created to meet the needs of women whose conditions require more intensive care. Referrals come from hospitals, health funds, and other providers, with assessments ensuring suitability for admission along with the baby’s health status.
Dr. Bar highlighted that psychiatric hospitalization during pregnancy is less common but poses a high risk for postpartum admission, making early intervention crucial. The ward’s stay duration is typically weeks to a month but can be extended if needed, with infants admitted up to six months old. The unit also facilitates visits from other children to maintain family bonds. Dr. Bar hopes the specialized ward will reduce stigma around psychiatric hospitalization and encourage earlier treatment, offering equitable care regardless of geography or socioeconomic status. She called the ward a significant personal and professional milestone, providing comprehensive care for mothers, babies, and families during perinatal mental health crises.
