What Every NICU Nurse Should Know About Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) are the most common complications of pregnancy and the postpartum period, affecting approximately one in five women in the United States. Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders encompass postpartum depression, perinatal anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, bipolar spectrum disorder, and perinatal psychosis. Despite their prevalence, PMADs remain significantly underdiagnosed and undertreated, with up to 75% of affected women not receiving adequate care. Untreated PMADs carry substantial consequences for maternal health, infant development, and family well-being, with an estimated annual economic burden of $14.2 billion. NICU admission compounds parental risk due to heightened stress, trauma, and uncertainty. Fathers and nonbirthing parents are also affected but remain largely unscreened. This article reviews the epidemiology, pathophysiology, key symptoms, screening, and treatment considerations for each PMAD, with case studies illustrating clinical implications for neonatal nursing practice.