This study explores the feasibility, acceptability, and policy implications of integrating mental health services into routine primary healthcare in Malawi. Perinatal mental health disorders are highly prevalent yet remain under-detected and under-treated, particularly in low-resource settings.

Using a mixed-methods design, the study engages pregnant and postpartum women, healthcare providers, policymakers, and community stakeholders to examine current service gaps, barriers, and opportunities for integration. Data are collected through desk reviews, quasi-experiment, qualitative interviews and stakeholder consultation to assess implementation feasibility and acceptability of a co-designed integration model.

The findings aim to generate context-specific evidence to inform health system strengthening and support the development of scalable and sustainable models of integrated perinatal mental healthcare. By engaging policymakers throughout the research process, the study seeks to enhance evidence uptake and contribute to improved maternal mental health outcomes and service delivery in Malawi.