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Perinatal Mental Health Management

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A special issue of Journal of Clinical Medicine (ISSN 2077-0383). This special issue belongs to the section "Mental Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (25 November 2025) | Viewed by 32634

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Prof. Dr. Sigita Lesinskienë

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Clinic of Psychiatry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, 01513 Vilnius, Lithuania
Interests: perinatal mental health; child mental health; problem behavior; cognitive development therapy

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Perinatal health refers to the health of mothers who are pregnant, giving birth, and raising babies up to one year of age. It is also directly related to the people around the mother and the baby and the organization of appropriate help in case of need. Good emotional well-being in both the mother and the baby is essential for the formation of attachment and good psychosocial development and serves as the primary basis for human mental health. If left untreated and underestimated, perinatal mental health issues can have severe effects on the mother, the baby, the family, and society. Pregnancy, childbirth, and adapting to changes while raising a baby make women more vulnerable and can provoke mental health problems comprising a wide range of conditions, especially in cases where psychosocial difficulties and mental health disorders are encountered, at which point women and their babies need complex and systematic help. These issues are very relevant, but there are differences in how they are researched and their aid is organized in different countries. This Special Issue invites papers (reviews, systemic and meta-analyses, original research papers, etc.) on these topics and will provide an opportunity for scholarly discussion and development in this area.

Prof. Dr. Sigita Lesinskienë
Guest Editor

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Keywords

perinatal mental health
child mental health
problem behavior
cognitive development therapy
hyperactivity

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Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

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16 pages, 289 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mapping Postpartum Depression in Latvia: Prevalence and Associated Factors Among Women Receiving Outpatient Care

by Marija Lazareva, Lubova Renemane, Silvija Cipare, Linda Rubene-Kesele, Vineta Viktorija Vinogradova, Liva Kise, Nancy Byatt and Elmars Rancans

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(3), 946; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15030946 - 24 Jan 2026

Viewed by 1215

Abstract

Objectives: Postpartum depression is a major global mental health concern, yet epidemiological evidence from the Baltic region remains limited. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of depressive symptoms among postpartum women attending postpartum outpatient care in Latvia and identify associated sociodemographic and clinical factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the outpatient department of the largest maternity hospital in Latvia from May 2024 to June 2025. All women aged 18 years or older, who attended a routine postpartum gynaecological visit 4 to 6 weeks after delivery and screened positive on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) (≥5 points), completed a sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Descriptive statistics were used in the study, and logistic regression was used to examine factors associated with postpartum depressive symptoms. Results: A total of 272 women aged 18 to 49 years (mean age 30.66 ± 5.59) participated. PHQ-9 results indicated that 43.02% of respondents met the threshold for a positive screen (≥5 points) and were included in the further analysis. Using a cut-off EPDS ≥11, the point prevalence of clinically significant depressive symptoms among women who screened positive on the PHQ-9 was 11.4%. In univariate analyses, postpartum depressive symptoms were most strongly associated with comorbid mental disorders (OR = 4.55; 95% CI 1.85–11.18; p = 0.001), caesarean section (OR = 3.05; 95% CI 1.18–7.92; p = 0.022), stress (OR = 2.49; 95% CI 1.04–5.94; p = 0.04) and obstetric complications (OR = 2.78; 95% CI 1.01–7.64; p = 0.048) during pregnancy. In the multivariate model, only three independent predictors remained: comorbid mental disorder (aOR = 9.54; 95% CI 2.72–33.49; p < 0.001) and caesarean section (aOR = 5.80; 95% CI 1.66–20.21; p = 0.006) were associated with higher odds of postpartum depression, while first-time motherhood was associated with a substantially lower likelihood of depressive symptoms (aOR = 0.14; 95% CI 0.04–0.49; p = 0.002). Sociodemographic characteristics, including age, education, employment, and income, were not significant predictors. Conclusions: The point prevalence of clinically significant depressive symptoms among Latvian postpartum women screening positive for depression appears similar to other European settings. Comorbid mental disorders and caesarean section were the strongest predictors of depressive symptoms, while primiparity showed a protective effect. Sociodemographic factors did not independently contribute to risk. As the first study of its kind in Latvia and conducted within a clinical setting that captures a large and diverse proportion of postpartum women, these findings highlight the context-specific nature of postpartum depression and underscore the need for further longitudinal research to inform effective screening and intervention strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Perinatal Mental Health Management)

11 pages, 569 KB

Open AccessArticle

Preeclampsia as an Independent and Major Risk Factor for Significant Postpartum Depression Symptomatology: Results from a Prospective Cohort Study

by Larisa-Mihaela Holbanel, Adina Turcu-Stiolica, Daniela Gabriela Glavan, Sebastian Constantin Toma and Nicolae Cernea

J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(1), 395; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15010395 - 5 Jan 2026

Viewed by 659

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Preeclampsia is a severe hypertensive disorder that has been linked to increased maternal psychiatric morbidity. However, existing literature remains inconsistent regarding whether this association is independent of underlying medical co-morbidities such as chronic hypertension and diabetes. Our objective was to precisely evaluate the Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) of developing Postpartum Depression symptomatology (probable PPD) following a diagnosis of preeclampsia in a prospectively tracked cohort, controlling for essential confounders. Methods: This prospective cohort study included 180 women (33 in the Preeclampsia group, 147 in the Normotensive reference group), with stringent exclusion of women with prior psychiatric history to reduce confounding. PPD was assessed postpartum using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS ≥ 13 cutoff). Multivariable logistic regression was employed to calculate the AOR, adjusting for maternal age, chronic hypertension, and prepregnancy diabetes. Results: The multivariable analysis demonstrated a highly significant and independent association between the primary exposure and the outcome. Preeclampsia was associated with 12.7-fold increased odds of developing PPD (AOR: 12.7; 95% CI: 5.1–31.7; p < 0.001). In contrast, none of the included confounders—chronic hypertension (AOR: 1.96, p = 0.182), prepregnancy diabetes (AOR: 1.8, p = 0.372), or age (AOR: 0.99, p = 0.759)—showed a statistically significant independent association with PPD risk. The model achieved strong explanatory power (Nagelkerke R² = 0.327; Omnibus Test p < 0.001). Conclusions: Preeclampsia represents a powerful and independent determinant of the risk for significant PPD symptomatology, substantially increasing the adjusted odds of the condition. These findings mandate that women with a history of preeclampsia be designated a high-risk group and receive immediate, mandatory, and intensified postpartum mental health surveillance and preferential access to specialized psychological support. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Perinatal Mental Health Management)

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13 pages, 1575 KB

Open AccessArticle

Depression and Anxiety During Pregnancy in Mexican Women: Prevalence and Associated Factors in the OBESO Cohort Study

by Blanca Vianey Suárez-Rico, Isabel González-Ludlow, Jonatan Alejandro Mendoza-Ortega, Guadalupe Estrada-Gutierrez, Pilar de Abiega-Franyutti, Salvador Espino y Sosa, Maria del Carmen Hernández-Chávez, Erika Osorio-Valencia, Gabriela Gil-Martínez, Araceli Montoya-Estrada, José Romo-Yañez, Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo, Otilia Perichart-Perera and Enrique Reyes-Muñoz

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(23), 8364; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14238364 - 25 Nov 2025

Viewed by 812

Abstract

Background: Depression and anxiety during pregnancy are global public health issues, as both are linked to adverse outcomes for mothers and their newborns. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression and anxiety during pregnancy and identify the factors associated with these conditions in Mexican women. Methods: This prospective cohort study included 288 participants. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory were applied during the second trimester of pregnancy. The factors associated with depression and anxiety were analyzed. Results: The prevalence of depression and anxiety was 20.5% (95% confidence interval (CI) 16.1–25.7) and 22.2% (95% CI 17.8–27.3), respectively. The factors independently associated with an increased risk of depression, expressed as adjusted odds ratios with (95% CI), were anxiety, 10.8 (5.4–21.6), p = 0.0001, and educational level, secondary school and high school, 2.6 (1.10–6.14). In contrast, a bachelor’s degree was associated with a lower risk of depression, 0.38 (0.16–0.90), p = 0.03. The factors independently associated with a higher risk of anxiety were depression, 11.2 (5.6–22.1), and having children, 3.1 (1.6–6.1), p = 0.03. Conclusions: Our results show that one in five pregnant women exhibit clinical symptoms of depression or anxiety, and one in eight women have both conditions simultaneously. These findings highlight the importance of routine mental health screening and assessment during pregnancy. The factors linked to depression include anxiety and having completed secondary or high school education, while depression and having children were associated with anxiety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Perinatal Mental Health Management)

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15 pages, 249 KB

Open AccessArticle

Cultural Adaptation and One-Year Follow-Up of the Mom-to-Mom Program Among Minority Arab Bedouin Women: Addressing Postpartum Depression

by Samira Alfayumi-Zeadna, Anna Schmitt, Rosa Abu Agina, Ilana Schmidt and Julie Cwikel

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(20), 7167; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14207167 - 11 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1071

Abstract

Background/Objectives: There is a growing need for programs addressing perinatal mental health, particularly for new mothers. Postpartum depression (PPD) may occur during pregnancy or within the first year postpartum, with both short- and long-term negative consequences for both mothers and their infants. This study describes the cultural adaptation, implementation, and one-year follow-up of the Mom-to-Mom (M2M) program for minority Bedouin women in Southern Israel. Methods: We conducted a community-based intervention (M2M) emphasizing cultural adaptation. Outreach efforts were conducted in collaboration with healthcare professionals to encourage referral to the M2M program. A total of 111 mothers completed a self-administered questionnaire that included socio-demographic characteristics and PPD symptoms (PPDs) at two time points: prior to the intervention (Time-1) and one year after participating in the program (Time-2). PPD was measured using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), using a score cutoff of ≥10. Results: There was a significant decrease in PPDs (EPDS ≥ 13) between Time-1 and Time-2 after one year of follow-up in the M2M program (from 45% to 19.8%). Of the participants, 75% were referred to the program by healthcare professionals. Among those with EPDS ≥ 10, 30% were referred to mental health services. This program provided education, professional support, and led to the establishment of the first M2M center within a Bedouin community, located in the Negev (Naqab). Conclusions: The results emphasize the importance of culturally sensitive approaches to increase awareness, early diagnosis, and professional support in addressing PPD, tailored to a cultural context. Culturally adapted programs can be effective in minority populations and contribute to reducing disparities in maternal mental health care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Perinatal Mental Health Management)

21 pages, 1056 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Prevalence of Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms, Life Satisfaction and Quality of Life Among Women in the Maternity Ward with the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Joanna Furman, Beata Łabuz-Roszak and Ewa Niewiadomska

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(17), 6279; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14176279 - 5 Sep 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1327

Abstract

Background: The postpartum period may predispose to a higher prevalence of mental health disorders. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of anxiety and depressive symptoms, life satisfaction, and quality of life in breastfeeding women in the maternity ward in relation to specific medical and social factors. Methods: The study group consisted of 304 female patients from the maternity ward of the Multispecialist District Hospital in Tarnowskie Góry, Poland. The research tool included four questionnaires: Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, Satisfaction with Life Scale, and Euro-Quality of Life Questionnaire. Results: The majority of women in the maternity ward reported good psychological well-being. Anxiety symptoms affected 11.9% of postpartum women, depressive symptoms—7.3%, and symptoms of postpartum depression—5.9%. The COVID-19 pandemic caused an increase in anxiety and depressive disorders (relative differences-expressed as a percentage). Women who gave birth by cesarean section were more likely to declare problems that negatively impacted their quality of life and health than those who gave birth naturally (OR = 1.28, 95% CI: 0.77–2.11). The risk of experiencing anxiety and depressive symptoms, as well as postpartum depression symptoms decreased as self-rated health increased (OR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.94–0.99; OR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.94–0.99; OR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.93–0.98, respectively). Higher level of life satisfaction was associated with higher levels of education and economic status, attendance at childbirth classes, and a higher self-assessment of health (OR = 4.1, 95% CI: 1.6–10.51; OR = 2.96, 95% CI: 1.41–6.24; OR = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.13–3.49; OR = 1.01, 95% CI: 1.01–1.04, respectively). Conclusions: Screening for mental disorders during the postpartum period enables the early identification of symptoms and the implementation of appropriate treatment. Women who give birth by cesarean section and have medical complaints should be given special follow-up care. Health policy should ensure wider access to psychological and psychiatric care during the postpartum period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Perinatal Mental Health Management)

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13 pages, 481 KB

Open AccessArticle

Postpartum Mothers’ Mental Health in a Conflict-Affected Region: A Cross-Sectional Study of Emotion Regulation and Social Support

by Shirly Mor, Yaron Sela and Shahar Lev-Ari

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(4), 1244; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14041244 - 13 Feb 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4002

Abstract

Background: The transition through pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum significantly impacts maternal mental health, influencing both individual and family well-being. While social support and emotion regulation serve as protective factors generally, their role and impact during periods of conflict remains understudied. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 400 Jewish mothers (up to two years postpartum) from a representative sample in Israel during a period of conflict. Participants were recruited through the Sekernet platform, a validated online survey tool in Israel. The study population included Jewish mothers up to two years postpartum, aged 18–45, without a history of diagnosed mental health disorders. Inclusion criteria specified mothers aged 18–45 and within two years postpartum, while exclusion criteria included mothers under 18, over 45, more than two years postpartum, or with a history of diagnosed mental illness or psychiatric disorders. Using validated instruments, we assessed psychological well-being (PWB), anxiety (GAD-7), perceived stress (PSS), resilience (CD-RISC), emotion regulation strategies (ERQ), quality of life (WHO-5), social support (MSPSS), and post-traumatic stress symptoms (PCL-5). Additionally, exposure to conflict-related media and direct exposure to war events were measured using self-reported questionnaires evaluating frequency and type of exposure during the conflict period. Results: Cognitive reappraisal and resilience positively correlated with psychological well-being (p < 0.01), while expressive suppression and general stress negatively correlated with both psychological well-being and quality of life (p < 0.01). Mediation analysis revealed that social support significantly mediated the effects of stress on psychological well-being (β = −0.060; p < 0.05) and quality of life (β = −0.05; p < 0.05). Additionally, exposure to conflict-related media and post-traumatic stress symptoms correlated with reduced well-being and increased anxiety. Conclusions: Our findings emphasize the vital roles of social support systems and adaptive emotional regulation strategies during the postpartum period, particularly in conflict settings. Healthcare providers should implement interventions that strengthen social support networks and teach adaptive emotion regulation skills to postpartum mothers in conflict zones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Perinatal Mental Health Management)

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9 pages, 426 KB

Open AccessArticle

Association Between Postpartum Depression and Personality Traits Among Japanese Postpartum Mothers and Fathers

by Ayana Haku, Hitoshi Kaneko and Junko Kawahito

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(24), 7714; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13247714 - 18 Dec 2024

Viewed by 3975

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Although numerous investigations have been conducted on postpartum depression, studies on the association between postpartum depression and personality traits of mothers and fathers are lacking. This study aimed to examine the association between postpartum depression and the Big Five personality models among Japanese mothers and fathers at one-month health check-ups. Methods: The participants were 82 couples, and they responded to the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), the Japanese version of the Ten-Item Personality Inventory, and the Quality of Marriage Index (QMI). We examined the correlations among variables and analyzed the data using structural equation modeling (SEM). Results: Maternal neuroticism was significantly associated with maternal depression (β = 0.50, p < 0.001), and maternal extraversion was significantly associated with paternal depression (β = −0.64, p < 0.001). In addition, we found that maternal postpartum depression was associated with maternal marital satisfaction (r = −0.29, p = 0.037); however, this association disappeared in SEM. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that health practitioners should pay attention to depression and personality traits in both postpartum mothers and fathers. Moreover, we should consider the different associations between depression and personality in parents when initiating interventions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Perinatal Mental Health Management)

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Review

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18 pages, 819 KB

Open AccessReview

Adolescent Pregnancies and Perinatal Mental Health—Needs and Complex Support Options: A Literature Review

by Sigita Lesinskienė, Justina Andruškevič and Agnė Butvilaitė

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(7), 2334; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14072334 - 28 Mar 2025

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 18224

Abstract

Adolescent pregnancy remains a global issue, demanding comprehensive, long-term solutions. Despite declining rates, early pregnancy leads to severe physical and mental health risks along with increased mortality. Therefore, adolescent pregnancy requires urgent global action. This literature review evaluates pregnant adolescents’ psychological health issues, explores their needs, and investigates interdisciplinary approaches to enhance mental and physical health support. Studies show that adolescent pregnancy poses significant mental health risks and is associated with high rates of depression, suicidal ideation, low self-esteem, substance use, and anxiety. Co-occurring hardships further worsen psychological well-being. Found data indicated that the main needs of pregnant adolescents were adequate sexual and reproductive health; legal rights; high-quality, accessible healthcare; and socioeconomic support. The included references revealed several interventions and recommendations for supporting pregnant adolescents while highlighting challenges in the current framework. Pregnant adolescents face diverse gaps in current support systems. Further research is needed addressing social services, reproductive health consultations, and mental health support. Greater emphasis on multidisciplinary approaches and examples of effective support strategies is crucial to creating a nurturing environment and securing the well-being of pregnant adolescents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Perinatal Mental Health Management)

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