Maternal mental health during pregnancy and after childbirth: Signs you should not ignore

Maternal mental health refers to a woman’s emotional and psychological well-being during pregnancy and after childbirth. Pregnancy and motherhood bring major physical, hormonal, and emotional changes in a woman’s life. While antenatal care usually focuses on the health of the mother and baby, mental well-being can sometimes receive less attention.

It is necessary to identify emotional concerns during routine antenatal visits and after childbirth. Anxiety, persistent sadness, sleep difficulties, stress, and difficulty adjusting to motherhood should not be dismissed as a normal part of pregnancy or new motherhood.

Early recognition of these concerns and timely support can help women cope better and seek further professional help when required.

Common maternal health issues that can affect mental well-being

Pregnancy-related anxiety: Concerns about the baby’s development, pregnancy complications, childbirth, or becoming a parent can cause persistent worry and fear.

Anaemia and fatigue: Low haemoglobin during pregnancy can contribute to tiredness, weakness, dizziness and reduced energy, which may also affect a woman’s emotional well-being.

Pregnancy complications: Conditions such as high blood pressure, preeclampsia or gestational diabetes can create additional physical and emotional stress and may require closer monitoring.

Fear of childbirth: Anxiety about labour pain, delivery complications or the baby’s health can become overwhelming for some women and should be discussed during antenatal visits.

Sleep difficulties: Physical discomfort during pregnancy, frequent urination and later, night-time feeding and newborn care, can significantly affect sleep and emotional health.

Postpartum depression: Persistent sadness, frequent crying, loss of interest, hopelessness, extreme irritability, or difficulty coping after childbirth should not simply be attributed to exhaustion.

Postpartum anxiety: Some women may constantly worry about their baby’s health or feel that something bad may happen. When this anxiety becomes excessive or interferes with daily life, professional support may be needed.

Breastfeeding and recovery concerns: Pain, difficulty with breastfeeding, changes in the body and slow physical recovery after delivery can add to stress, particularly when a woman feels she is unable to meet expectations.

Women should speak to their gynaecologist if they experience persistent sadness, excessive anxiety, frequent crying, severe irritability, loss of interest in daily activities, difficulty sleeping even when the baby is sleeping, feelings of hopelessness, or difficulty caring for themselves or their baby.

Maternal mental health should be discussed as part of routine antenatal and postnatal care. The expert can ask women about their mood, sleep, stress levels, and ability to cope, particularly when they have pregnancy complications or other concerns. Family support is equally important.

Partners and family members can help by sharing childcare and household responsibilities, allowing the mother adequate time to rest and listening to her concerns without judgement. Nutritious food, adequate rest, appropriate physical activity, and relaxation practices can support overall well-being, but women experiencing emotional difficulties may require help from an expert. Regular communication with a gynaecologist can help identify concerns early and ensure that women receive timely support during pregnancy and after childbirth.

-Dr. Madhulika Singh is a Senior Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist and Infertility Specialist at Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, Pune