What is maternal mental health and why is it a concern for mothers in the US?

A report by the nonprofit Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health, alongside researchers from George Washington University, decried the support available for maternal mental health in the US. Only ten states got a grading higher than a D, with not one reaching A.

The report measured the amount of specialised care for pregnant and postpartum women as around 20% of mothers experience mental health challenges each year. No state with abortion banned or seriously restricted scored higher than a D.

“The truth is that access to mental care in this country, specifically in states where abortion has been restricted, has been abysmal for a very long time,” said Dr. Colleen McNicholas, the chief medical officer at Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri.

Maternal mental health refers to the mental well-being of women during pregnancy and the postpartum period, commonly known as the ‘perinatal period.’ This is a critical time for mothers as they experience significant hormonal changes, physical demands, and emotional adjustments related to childbirth and motherhood.

The two most common mental health conditions associated with motherhood

Postpartum Depression (PPD): This is a form of clinical depression that occurs after childbirth, usually within the first year. PPD can lead to feelings of sadness, anxiety, fatigue, and a sense of detachment from the baby.

Postpartum Anxiety: This condition involves excessive worry, fear, and anxiety that can interfere with daily life and bonding with the baby. It is different from the normal worries that come with motherhood and can be overwhelming if left untreated.

According to the CDC’s estimation, over 50% of pregnant women with depression do not receive treatment.

Why should this be a concern?

Mental health is as important as physical health for maintaining a healthy and comfortable life. As extra pressures are put on mothers or mother-to-be, such as restrictions to abortion access, the likelihood is that the ensuing health concerns will generate into long-term issues for mothers as well as communities.

“Abortion has been a really critical tool for [women] to continue to manage mental health crises in their lives and to keep them healthy and safe,” McNicholas added.