Mental Health Drove Missouri Pregnancy Deaths

A new review found that mental health conditions were a primary factor in pregnancy-related deaths across Missouri.

Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Pregnancy

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a solitary archway silhouette against a solid background, evoking the gravity of maternal health findings. — A review of Missouri pregnancy-related deaths between 2019 and 2023 found that mental health conditions were a primary factor in maternal mortality. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

A review of pregnancy-related deaths in Missouri between 2019 and 2023 identified mental health conditions as a leading cause of mortality. These findings highlight a critical health challenge for individuals during pregnancy and throughout the year following childbirth.

Why it matters

Mental health complications contributed to nearly one-quarter of these deaths, underscoring the vital need for integrated care and screening. This data highlights the significant role that conditions like depression and anxiety play in maternal outcomes.

A report analyzing pregnancy-related deaths in Missouri from 2019 to 2023 determined that mental health conditions were a primary contributor to mortality. These findings represent a significant portion of pregnancy-related outcomes, with 25% of deaths linked to these health factors.

The players

Pregnancy-Associated Mortality Review

A state-level investigative body tasked with analyzing and reporting on the causes of pregnancy-related deaths in Missouri.

The details

The Pregnancy-Associated Mortality Review analyzed data to identify clinical contributors to maternal deaths. It specifically highlighted that depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders were primary factors in these outcomes. By evaluating patterns from the five-year period, the report underscores how these conditions intersect with pregnancy-related physiological risks.

2019-2023 was the period analyzed for the pregnancy-related mortality report.

Health Landscape

This report follows the investigative pattern of the Pregnancy-Associated Mortality Review to identify trends in state maternal health outcomes. It contributes to a growing body of evidence highlighting how psychiatric and behavioral health needs remain central to modern obstetric care.

If you are pregnant or recently gave birth, discuss any symptoms of anxiety or depression with your primary care physician or obstetrician. Identifying and treating these conditions early is an essential part of managing overall health during and after pregnancy.

The takeaway

Mental health conditions represent a critical health risk during and after pregnancy that requires ongoing clinical attention. Monitoring emotional well-being should be prioritized as a standard part of prenatal and postpartum checkups with your doctor.