The maternal mental health crisis undermines moms' and babies' health

The problem: untreated maternal mental health means worse health outcomes for moms and babies. The mental health of mothers in the United States is in crisis. This harms not only their own health, but also that of their infants. Maternal mental health (MMH) conditions are relatively common, affecting one in five women.1 When left undiagnosed and untreated, MMH conditions can lead to long-term adverse health consequences for the birthing person, their infant, and family. Preventing and consistently treating MMH conditions is a crucial component in fighting the larger maternal mortality and morbidity crisis in the United States, and in promoting healthier communities overall. (author abstract)