Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Severe Maternal Morbidity

Area of Science:

• Reproductive health
• Maternal mental health
• Perinatal mental health

Background:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes including miscarriage, intrauterine fetal demise, and preterm birth.
• Severe maternal morbidity and near-miss events, disproportionately affecting minority and rural populations, are increasingly associated with PTSD.
• Various pre-existing conditions and events during labor and delivery elevate the risk for developing PTSD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the association between pregnancy complications and PTSD.
• To highlight the heightened risk of PTSD in women experiencing severe maternal morbidity or near-miss events.
• To emphasize the importance of postpartum evaluation for PTSD screening.

Main Methods:

• This study synthesizes existing research on PTSD following pregnancy complications.
• It reviews data linking severe maternal morbidity and near-miss events to PTSD.
• The analysis considers risk factors contributing to perinatal PTSD.

Main Results:

• PTSD frequently accompanies miscarriage, intrauterine fetal demise, and preterm birth.
• Women facing life-threatening labor and delivery events report higher PTSD levels.
• Severe maternal morbidity and near-miss events show a significant association with PTSD, particularly in vulnerable populations.

Conclusions:

• Postpartum evaluation is a critical opportunity for screening and addressing PTSD.
• Untreated perinatal PTSD negatively affects maternal and child health long-term.
• Addressing perinatal PTSD is essential for mitigating health disparities.