A recent literature review conducted by The George Institute for Global Health and UNSW, published in the journal Reproduction, highlights a significant gap in postpartum care. The study reveals that women who experience medical complications during pregnancy, such as preeclampsia, face a heightened risk of developing mental health issues, notably depression, after childbirth.
The findings underscore that women with preeclampsia—a condition characterized by high blood pressure and potential organ damage—are at a notably increased risk of postnatal depression, often enduring its effects for months or even years postpartum. This risk persists even in the absence of prior mental health conditions.
The Prevalence and Impact of Preeclampsia
In Australia, hypertensive disorders affect up to 10% of pregnancies, with preeclampsia occurring in approximately 5-8% of cases. Preeclampsia is a significant contributor to maternal and perinatal mortality, accounting for 15% of direct maternal deaths and 10% of perinatal deaths. It also frequently necessitates medical interventions such as labor inductions and caesarean sections.
“Preeclampsia is not only a medical emergency but also a precursor to long-term mental health challenges for many women.”
While gestational diabetes and anemia during pregnancy are also linked to a higher likelihood of postnatal depression—with increased risks of 59% and 24%, respectively—the evidence is less consistent compared to the risks associated with preeclampsia.
Current Postpartum Care Practices
Despite these clear risks, postpartum care predominantly focuses on physical recovery, often neglecting mental health support. This oversight leaves many women without the necessary support, potentially leading to enduring harm for both mothers and their children.
The 2023 Australian Clinical Practice Guidelines have begun to address this issue by recommending routine mental health screenings at 6-12 weeks and again at 6-8 months postpartum. However, researchers argue that more comprehensive measures are needed to effectively screen and support women’s mental health both before and after pregnancy.
“Maternal mental health is vital for both mother and baby—without early screening and support, mothers and their children can face lasting harm.”
Calls for Comprehensive Mental Health Support
Amanda Henry, Program Head of Women’s Health at The George Institute for Global Health and Professor of Obstetrics at UNSW Medicine and Health, emphasizes the necessity of integrating mental health checks and comprehensive support into standard postpartum care for all women.
Researchers advocate for routine mental health screening and personalized care for women with complicated pregnancies. This approach should focus on early detection and provide evidence-based care, ranging from lifestyle and psychological therapies to medications and trauma-focused treatments.
The proposed model of care involves a multidisciplinary team, led by midwives, obstetricians, and mental health specialists, ensuring better access to evidence-based treatments and culturally sensitive, trauma-informed support throughout the postpartum period.
Looking Forward: Implementing Change
The study’s findings highlight an urgent need for healthcare systems to adapt and provide more holistic care for postpartum women. By prioritizing mental health alongside physical recovery, healthcare providers can significantly improve outcomes for mothers and their children.
As healthcare policies evolve, the integration of mental health support into postpartum care will be crucial in addressing the long-term well-being of mothers and their families. The research calls for immediate action to bridge the gap in care and ensure that all women receive the comprehensive support they need during this critical period.
