Risk Factors
There are a number of risk factors that can help contribute to a woman developing a maternal mental health complication. Below are just some of the leading factors.
Personal History
This includes ever being diagnosed or you have experienced depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, or an eating disorder.
Family History
If you have a mother, aunt, sister, or grandmother who has ever experienced a maternal mental health complication.
Hormone Sensitivity
If you have a history of being sensitive to hormone changes before or during your period or when taking birth control.
Previous MMH Disorder
If you have ever had a maternal mental health complication in other pregnancies or births.
Multiples
Women who have multiples.
Military Family
Either being a military wife or being in the military yourself.
Complications
Having complications during your pregnancy like mandatory bed rest, unexpected bleeding, gestational diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Trauma
Having a history of trauma.
Lack of Social Support
Feeling isolated, living away from loved ones, not having social support.
Recent Move or Loss
Experiencing a big change, move, or loss.
Relationship Stress
Experiencing stress or difficulties in your relationship with a partner.
Pregnancy Loss
Either having a pregnancy loss or having a history of birth loss, selective abortion, or placing a baby for adoption.
IVF
Unexpected Pregnancy
NICU Baby
Super Woman
Having a type “A’ personality or being used to having control and doing things on your own, being a perfectionist.
Financial Strain
Childcare Stress
Breastfeeding Issues
Traumatic Labor
Cholic Baby
Lack of Sleep
Pain
Adolescent or Perimenopausal
If you are in crisis or you think you may have an emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. If you're having suicidal thoughts, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to talk to a skilled, trained counselor at a crisis center in your area at any time (National Suicide Prevention Lifeline).