The experience of carrying and welcoming a baby is powerful, beautiful and life-changing. Along with the physical changes, it also brings emotional shifts that can feel unexpected, overwhelming or confusing. While many people are familiar with postpartum depression, we now understand that mental health challenges can occur throughout the entire perinatal period,  prior to, during pregnancy and after birth.

During pregnancy, women can experience new or worsening symptoms of a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or, in very rare and severe cases, psychosis. Mental health challenges during this time period are more common than many realize and no one should feel they have to navigate them alone. If you or a loved one is struggling during pregnancy or post pregnancy, please visit our women's health services page to learn more, schedule an appointment and connect with care, support and understanding.

What we have learned

Mental health challenges can occur prior to or begin during pregnancy, creating an important opportunity for early care and support. Perinatal mood and anxiety symptoms exist on a spectrum and even mild changes deserve attention. Early awareness enables families and providers to respond before symptoms become more serious.

Many women experience the “baby blues,” which can include sadness, mood swings or feeling overwhelmed. These symptoms are common and typically resolve on their own within one to two weeks after delivery. If symptoms last longer or worsen, it may signal depression that will benefit from professional care.

The brain naturally becomes more alert during pregnancy to help protect both parent and baby. However, when worry becomes constant or interferes with daily life, it may be a sign that additional support is needed. Mental health professionals can help restore balance, reduce anxiety and guide families toward healing.

Specific screening tools

Identifying depression during pregnancy and postpartum can be challenging because emotional and physical changes are expected. Screening tools designed for pregnancy and postpartum help providers better recognize concerning symptoms by focusing on mood, interest, emotional experience and safety. These tools also help identify more serious concerns, such as thoughts of self-harm or harm to others.

Who is most at risk

The people who are most at risk for mental health challenges or depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period are those who have had:

  • Trauma. Mental health challenges can arise for those who have experienced difficulties surrounding infertility, pregnancy loss, difficult labor or delivery, a traumatic birth, a baby in the NICU or other medical concerns that weigh heavily on them. These experiences can leave lasting emotional impact that deserves compassionate attention.
  • Substance use history. Women giving birth with a history of or current substance use may be experiencing heightened stress, anxiety, guilt or fear of relapse. Supportive treatment can address both mental health needs and recovery, helping them feel more secure and supported.
  • Mood or anxiety disorders. Individuals with a history of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and/or psychosis should be closely monitored. These conditions may return or intensify during the perinatal period and early care can protect both the parent and their family.

Perinatal mental health is often missed or minimized

Awareness of perinatal mental health is growing across healthcare fields, including pediatrics and obstetrics. Improved screening and education are helping more families receive care. Still, gaps remain, especially among underserved communities and culturally diverse populations.

Advocacy can make a powerful difference. Reaching out for support—for yourself or a loved one—can connect you with resources, guidance, and care that make this journey more manageable. Everyone deserves understanding, compassion, and help when navigating the challenges of pregnancy and early parenthood.

How untreated depression affects everyone

Seeking care early improves long-term outcomes for both parent and child. Untreated depression can affect emotional health, infant development and the parent-child bond. Effective treatments are available during the perinatal time period, so encourage treatment sooner.

Signs to watch for

During pregnancy and postpartum, watch out for someone who is having trouble sleeping, eating, caring for themselves or their baby, or feels unsafe in their living situation. Notice if a loved one starts behaving or acting in ways that are unusual for them, withdraws, becomes more anxious, or relies on substances. If you see these changes, gently check in and encourage them to seek support.

MOMS Line 24/7, free, confidential hotline

If you notice these signs in a loved one, please call or encourage them to call the MOMS Line, a 24/7 free, confidential hotline at (866) 364-6667. The team answering the phone are licensed mental health professionals with experience in perinatal mental health and crisis support. They will listen, provide support, validate feelings and offer guidance in the moment.

The team can discuss treatment options and connect callers with resources that fit their individual needs, including insurance coverage, language preferences and interpreter services. Resources range from support groups and home visits to general psychiatry, advanced practice nurses, mobile crisis units and guidance for urgent situations – a including navigating the local emergency department if needed.

Both parents may need support

Partners may also experience emotional and mental health changes during the perinatal period. The transition to parenthood affects both individuals and their relationship. If you are the partner, paying attention to your own mental health and wellbeing is also important.

During this time of great change and adjustment, consider couples therapy, peer support groups and support from specialized mental health providers. These resources can help families adjust, communicate and thrive. Strong support for the couple strengthens the entire family unit. Partners are also welcome to call the MOMS Line for support and guidance.

New service for parents

Parenting can feel overwhelming even without mental health challenges. Thanks to grant funding from Endeavor Health, a new parent hotline, Parentline, provides extra guidance and support for families. Eligible parents can access short-term therapy at no cost, along with follow-up check-ins to help them navigate this period.

Parentline helps parents build confidence, develop coping skills and connect with ongoing care, if needed. Receiving support early can make the transition to parenthood smoother for the whole family. Call the MOMS Line at (866) 364-6667 to be connected to the new parent hotline.

Guiding the perinatal journey

Endeavor Health is committed to supporting families throughout the perinatal journey with compassionate, comprehensive care. The right mental health treatment and support can help mom and partner enhance their wellbeing to be more present for the moments that matter most. If you or a loved one is struggling during pregnancy or postpartum, call the MOMS Line, explore more resources, or call (847) 750-2878.