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06:39
Using a Murine Model of Psychosocial Stress in Pregnancy as a Translationally Relevant Paradigm for Psychiatric Disorders in Mothers and Infants
Published on: June 13, 2021
Obstetrical and Neonatal Outcomes in Pregnant Individuals With Anxiety Disorders
Nina Caporicci-Dinucci1, Andrea R Spence2, Ethan Bendayan1
1Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Quebec, Canada.
The Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research
|July 23, 2026
Summary
Anxiety disorders (ADs) in pregnancy increase risks for maternal complications like pre-eclampsia and preterm birth. Neonatal outcomes are also affected, highlighting the need for screening and treatment of anxiety disorders during pregnancy.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Perinatal Mental Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Anxiety disorders (ADs) are common in the general population and pregnant individuals.
- Previous studies suggest adverse pregnancy outcomes linked to mental health conditions, but often group disorders.
- Specific impacts of ADs on obstetrical and fetal/neonatal health require detailed investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the impact of anxiety disorders (ADs) on obstetrical and fetal/neonatal outcomes in pregnant individuals.
- To provide specific data on the risks associated with ADs during pregnancy.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study using 2016-2021 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project, Nationwide Inpatient Sample data.
- Analysis of associations between pregnancies with ADs and obstetrical/newborn outcomes.
- Multivariable logistic regression models adjusted for maternal characteristics.
Main Results:
- Prevalence of ADs in pregnancy increased from 3.1% to 8.1% (2016-2021).
- ADs associated with increased risks of gestational hypertension, pre-eclampsia, preterm birth, postpartum hemorrhage, and longer hospital stays.
- Higher rates of intrauterine growth restriction and congenital anomalies observed in neonates of mothers with ADs.
Conclusions:
- Pregnant individuals with ADs face significantly higher risks of adverse obstetrical and neonatal outcomes.
- Routine screening for ADs in pregnant patients is critical.
- Timely and appropriate treatment for ADs in pregnancy is essential for improving maternal and infant health outcomes.
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