This report brings together the latest perinatal mental health screening data from four state and territory health authorities, looking at how these vary by maternal characteristics and behaviours, birth settings, and birth outcomes. It also identifies a lack of national data and the report suggests improving data reporting and integration is necessary, especially to support underrepresented groups. 

Mental health conditions during the perinatal period are common, affecting an estimated one in five mothers and can have serious effects on the health and wellbeing of women, their babies and families. National guidelines recommend that all women are screened for signs, symptoms and risk factors of mental health conditions during the perinatal period, to help ensure women receive timely support and treatment. 

Key findings

• At least 7 in 10 women who gave birth in Qld, Tas and the ACT in 2022 received mental health screening during pregnancy.
• Screening practices for perinatal mental health vary significantly across states, territories, and healthcare settings.
• Certain cohorts, including First Nations women, women born overseas, single or separated women, private patients, and older mothers, have historically been under-represented in perinatal mental health screening.
• Key risk factors for developing a perinatal mental health condition include a history of mental illness, history of abuse or intimate partner violence, limited social support and lower socioeconomic status.
• Factors such as personal resilience, positive childhood experiences and social support have a protective effect against perinatal mental health conditions and can mitigate the effects of some risk factors.
• Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health conditions in the perinatal period, with prevalence estimates ranging from around 10% to 20% of mothers.
• Childbirth-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects from 3% to 6% of mothers.
• 1 in 10 expecting or new fathers experience perinatal anxiety and/or depression.