Untreated depression can endanger both mother and baby

National Pregnancy Week: 3–7 February 2026

Pregnancy is often expected to be a joyful time, yet for many women it is filled with fear, sadness, anxiety or emotional distress. 

During National Pregnancy Week (3-7 February) , the South African Society of Psychiatrists (SASOP) is urging pregnant women to take depression and anxiety seriously and not to stop psychiatric medication without medical advice.

In South Africa, between 16% and 50% of women experience depression or anxiety during pregnancy, and up to one in ten are at high risk of suicide. These are common medical conditions, and when left untreated, they can have serious and sometimes tragic consequences.

Untreated perinatal mental illness also has long-term consequences for families and society. In South Africa, the estimated lifetime cost of untreated maternal depression and anxiety is R42 billion, while early detection and treatment save lives and reduce long-term harm.

“Mental illness during pregnancy is real, widespread and treatable,” says Dr Jessica Stanbridge, psychiatrist and SASOP member. “Ignoring symptoms or stopping medication without guidance can place both mother and baby at risk.”

Untreated mental illness during pregnancy affects not only how a woman feels, but also how her body functions and how she can care for herself and her baby.

Research shows that untreated depression and anxiety increase the risk of:

• Premature birth and low birth weight

• Poor growth and development of the baby

• Difficulty bonding with the baby after birth

• Severe postnatal depression and relapse

• Self-harm or suicide in the mother

• In rare but devastating cases, harm to or death of the baby (infanticide)

“These outcomes are not inevitable,” Dr Stanbridge emphasises. “With the right support and treatment, they are largely preventable.”

Many pregnant women worry about taking medication and fear harming their baby. SASOP acknowledges these concerns and stresses the importance of individualised medical advice.

“Current evidence shows that most antidepressants, including SSRIs, are generally safe during pregnancy when carefully prescribed and monitored,” says Dr Stanbridge. “The risks of medication must always be weighed against the very real dangers of untreated depression and anxiety.”

For women with moderate to severe symptoms, medication is often necessary, alongside counselling and social support.

“Treatment helps women stay emotionally stable, function day-to-day, and care for themselves,” Dr Stanbridge explains. “For women with serious mental illness, staying on treatment can reduce the risk of postnatal relapse by up to two-thirds.”

While mood changes are common in pregnancy, persistent or severe symptoms are not something women should endure alone.

Women should seek professional help if they experience:

• Ongoing sadness, numbness, or hopelessness

• Constant worry, panic attacks, or overwhelming fear

• Extreme tiredness, sleep problems, or appetite changes

• Feeling unable to cope or function

• Thoughts of harming themselves or their baby

“Pregnant women deserve compassion, understanding, and access to evidence-based care,” says Dr Stanbridge. “Medication is not a failure. It is often one of the tools that allows a mother to stay well and keep her baby safe.”

Women experiencing emotional distress, or those who have stopped taking their psychiatric medication during pregnancy, are encouraged to contact their doctor, midwife or mental health professional as soon as possible.

Early support, whether through therapy, social support, or medication, can save lives and protect families.

For support: contact the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG). Contact their 24-hour helplines on 0800 567 567 or 0800 456 789. SMS 31393