Postpartum depression affects an estimated 10–15 percent of all new mothers, yet many never receive help because the symptoms aren't caught early enough. In Sweden, a new approach is being tested: systematic screening of all pregnant women as early as the first trimester.
Screening from the first prenatal visit
Region Västmanland introduced a psychosocial assessment program in 2020 in which all pregnant women are screened for depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns at their first midwife appointment. The program is now being evaluated in a large study published in Research Protocols.
Researchers are using data from the Swedish pregnancy registry, combined with questionnaires and in-depth interviews, to measure whether early detection actually leads to better treatment and fewer cases of postpartum depression. Results are expected in 2025–2026.
The idea is straightforward: the earlier you identify women who are struggling, the faster you can intervene — whether through talk therapy, adjusted follow-up care, or medication.
Why this matters
Untreated depression during pregnancy doesn't only affect the mother. Research shows it can lead to preterm birth, low birth weight, and bonding difficulties for the baby. Yet in many places, it's essentially random who gets identified and who slips through the cracks.
Systematic screening removes that randomness. Instead of hoping a clinician happens to notice the signs, the same questions are asked of everyone — without stigma.
What the evidence says internationally
The WHO and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) both recommend that healthcare providers be attentive to mental health throughout pregnancy. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is widely used after birth to screen for postpartum depression. Systematic screening of all pregnant women early in pregnancy has not yet been established as a universal standard — which is exactly what the Swedish pilot is testing.
If you have questions about your pregnancy, explore our week-by-week pregnancy guide.
Frequently asked questions
Are pregnant women screened for mental health issues?
In many countries, healthcare providers are advised to be attentive to mental health during pregnancy, but systematic screening of all pregnant women early in the first trimester is not yet a universal standard. After birth, the EPDS (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale) is commonly used to screen for postpartum depression. The Swedish pilot is testing whether moving this screening earlier improves outcomes.
How common is postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression affects an estimated 10–15 percent of all new mothers. Many never receive help because symptoms go undetected. Depression can also occur during pregnancy, not only after birth. Untreated prenatal depression is linked to preterm birth, low birth weight, and bonding difficulties.
What should I do if I'm struggling mentally during pregnancy?
Talk to your midwife, OB, or primary care doctor. You don't need to wait until things feel serious — a low threshold for reaching out matters. Your provider can help with adjusted follow-up care, a referral for talk therapy, or further evaluation. There is no shame in asking for help, and early intervention leads to the best outcomes for both you and your baby.
Can depression during pregnancy affect the baby?
Yes. Research shows that untreated depression during pregnancy can increase the risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and bonding difficulties. That is precisely why early detection matters. With appropriate treatment — such as talk therapy or adjusted care — the prognosis is good for both mother and baby.