Association Between Perinatal Mental Health and Pregnancy and Neonatal Complications: A Retrospective Birth Cohort Study

Abstract

Background: Maternal mental health as an important precursor to reproductive and neonatal complications remains understudied in the United States, particularly in the Southeastern region, despite high medical costs, maternal morbidity, and infant burden. This study sought to estimate the incidence of perinatal mental health disorders and the associated increased risk of leading pregnancy and infant complications.

Methods: A population-based retrospective birth cohort of childbirth hospitalizations and readmissions was constructed for women in South Carolina, 1999 to 2017. Prevalence rates were calculated for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMAD), severe mental illness, and mental disorders of pregnancy (MDP). Poisson regression models using generalized estimating equations were used to estimate adjusted relative risks for the association between mental health conditions and severe maternal morbidity, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, gestational diabetes, cesarean section, preterm birth, and low birthweight.

Results: The most prevalent maternal mental condition was MDP (3.9%), followed by PMAD (2.7%) and severe mental illness (0.13%). PMAD was associated with a higher risk of severe maternal morbidity, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and cesarean section, as well as a higher risk of preterm birth and low birthweight infants. Severe mental illness was associated with low birthweight, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and cesarean section. Pregnant populations with MDP were more at risk for severe maternal morbidity, preterm birth, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, low birthweight, and cesarean section. Each maternal mental health outcome was associated with an increased risk for hospital readmissions up to 45 days after childbirth.

Conclusions: Results demonstrate the escalating burden of PMAD and MDP for pregnant populations over time, with important consequences related to maternal and infant morbidity.