Editorial: Perinatal substance use and maternal mental health
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By
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Deepthi S. Varma
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Amie J. Goodin
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Kalyn Marie Renbarger
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Catalina Lopez-Quintero
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May 11, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: Maternal Mental Health and Substance Use During the Perinatal Period
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Perinatal substance use and maternal mental health disorders |
| Key Mechanisms | Interplay of substance use behaviors, mental health risks, and prior life experiences |
| Target Population | Pregnant and postpartum women |
| Care Setting | Integrated healthcare, child welfare, and substance use treatment services |
Key Highlights
- Perinatal substance use is linked to increased maternal morbidity and neonatal complications.
- Adverse childhood experiences significantly influence substance use patterns during pregnancy.
- Women in the perinatal period are willing to engage in research and clinical interventions.
- Digital health interventions can reduce self-stigma and improve care access.
- Holistic approaches, including physical activity, show promise in enhancing recovery outcomes.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Integrate screening for substance use and mental health disorders in perinatal care.
Management
- Adopt trauma-informed care approaches for pregnant and postpartum women.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Conduct longitudinal studies to assess long-term outcomes of perinatal substance use.
Risks
- Address barriers to accessing care and stigma associated with substance use.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Women experiencing substance use and mental health disorders during the perinatal period.
Interventions should focus on resilience-building and trauma experiences.
Clinical Best Practices
- Collaborate across sectors to provide integrated care for perinatal women.
- Utilize technology-enabled approaches to enhance patient engagement.
- Implement targeted counseling for women with ongoing substance use.
Related Resources & Content
