Meta-Analysis Of Antenatal Depression And Adverse Birth Outcomes In US Populations, 2010-20

Untreated depression presents a distinct set of risks for pregnancy complications. Past studies have connected antenatal depression with adverse birth outcomes. The purpose of this study was to conduct an updated systematic review and meta-analysis examining the relationship between depression during pregnancy and associated adverse birth outcomes in US populations during the period 2010-20. As a trend, disparities in adverse pregnancy outcomes and maternal morbidities for Black pregnant people compared with those for White pregnant people continue to rise. Addressing mental health conditions during pregnancy has the potential to ameliorate a large and excessive burden on adverse birth outcomes among childbearing people and their offspring. Policy solutions to encourage, mandate, and reimburse universal depression screening during pregnancy are warranted.

Automated summary

Untreated depression poses a unique set of risks for pregnancy complications, with disparities in adverse birth outcomes and maternal morbidities between Black and White pregnant individuals continuing to increase. Policy measures to encourage universal depression screening during pregnancy are necessary.