Perinatal Mental Health

Mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety, are common among pregnant and postpartum people. Mental health conditions can occur at any point in a person’s life course, but the perinatal period is a time of heightened risk [1]. If left untreated, mental health conditions can have a profound impact on the overall health and wellbeing of an individual, her children, and her community.

Mental health conditions are among the most common complications of childbirth experienced by birthing people in the US. They are also the leading cause of preventable pregnancy-related deaths in the US [1],[2]. Maine’s Maternal, Fetal, and Infant Morality Review panel (MFIMR) determined that mental health challenges were contributing circumstances in six of the nine pregnancy-associated deaths that occurred in 2021.

Addressing perinatal mental health conditions ensures better health outcomes for both birthing parents and children [3],[4],[5]. In Maine, several efforts are underway to raise awareness about perinatal mental health and expand resources for prevention, screening, and treatment.