Providing maternal mental health support

Caring for a new baby can be an exciting time that can feel like a whirlwind with sleepless nights, new experiences and lots of sweet cuddles — but it can also be an extremely challenging journey. 

Many of these challenges are normal, but they can create uneasy feelings in a new mother. In fact, 1 in 5 women experience pregnancy-related mental health conditions.¹ Maternal mental health challenges are the No. 1 cause of maternal mortality, primarily due to suicide or overdose — and the majority of those deaths are preventable.¹

For some new mothers — about 1 in 8² — these feelings of postpartum depression can be intense and may interfere with a mother’s ability to care for herself or her family. It’s a serious condition, but it can be treated — and most importantly, it’s nothing to be ashamed about.

“As a medical professional specializing in women's health and a mother of two, I believe it is crucial to shed light on this silent epidemic,” said Dr. Lisa Saul, chief medical officer of women’s health at UnitedHealthcare. “The time has come to recognize that pregnancy-related mental health conditions are not only prevalent but largely preventable.”

There is no single cause.³ After giving birth, moms are generally getting less sleep. Their hormone levels of estrogen and progesterone — which are important during pregnancy — are also dropping, which may have a profound effect on their mood. They may also be adapting to a vastly different routine than before the baby was born, which can affect their mental state. The condition can happen before or after a child’s birth but typically occurs between a week and a month following delivery.

Although symptoms may vary, what makes postpartum depression different from baby blues is that it affects a woman’s daily life and it may not go away, without treatment. If left untreated, it may last several weeks or months.³

Some of the symptoms may include:

• Persistent sad, anxious or “empty” mood for most of the day (for at least two weeks)
• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or helplessness
• Increased irritability, frustration or restlessness
• Losing interest in things that were once enjoyable
• Fatigue or abnormal decrease in energy
• Changes in appetite or sudden unplanned weight changes
• Difficulty bonding or forming an emotional connection to the baby

Postpartum depression is a medical condition that can affect any woman or pregnant and postpartum person, regardless of age, race or income.³ Those who have a history of anxiety or mood disorders may be more at risk, or those with a family history of postpartum depression. 

Treating postpartum depression can be critical for both the health and well-being of both mother and baby. You should discuss all symptoms and treatment options with your provider to help you develop a plan.

Treatment options might include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help recognize and alter negative thoughts or behaviors
• Interpersonal therapy (IPT) to help understand challenging personal relationships
• Antidepressant medications (including the first oral postpartum medication)
• Or a combination of these treatments

Becoming a new mom can be overwhelming. Having the right support and care can help it feel less isolating. If you feel like you have any mental health concerns, like postpartum depression, or you know someone who may be struggling, there are professionals who can help, without judgment. Don’t wait to talk to a health care provider to start the conversation.