Maternal Mental Health: A Neglected Priority

Mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety can occur during pregnancy and post partum in many parts of the world. According to a report released by the World Health Organization one in three to one five women in developing countries and one in ten in developed countries are at risk for significant mental health problems during pregnancy and following child birth. Socio economic factors such as poverty, gender stereotyping , unintended pregnancy and gender based violence  are important contributors to the onset of mental health problems in pregnant women and new mothers especially  among those living in low to mid income countries

Unfortunately mental health problems are often misdiagnosed or undiagnosed in pregnant women due to the commonalities of symptoms associated with the state of pregnancy and lack of access to diagnostic services. The social stigma associated with mental health is another barrier which prevents women from seeking medical care in many countries.

This presentation will discuss the why maternal mental health continues to be neglected in many societies  Examples of best practices and the role of stake holders such as  WHO,  UNICEF, NGOs on how to incorporate mental health into maternal health services in various regions will be highlighted .