OH HCR16

Depression and other mental health conditions are the most common complications of pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, affecting up to 85% of women and birthing persons with some type of mood disturbance.

One in five mothers and birthing persons develop significant symptoms of depression or anxiety, including obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder.

Postpartum psychosis affects between one and two per 1,000 mothers, often develops rapidly, and may endanger the lives of both mother and infant.

According to Ohio's Pregnancy-Associated Mortality Review Program, mental health conditions are currently the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths in Ohio.

The 135th General Assembly recognizes the importance of perinatal mental health and encourages continued investment in support programs for pregnant women and newly parenting mothers, communication between patients and healthcare providers about mental health experiences, and distribution of this resolution to Ohio news media.