What best describes perinatal mental health and the purpose of screening?

• A. Mental health concerns during pregnancy and after birth; screening enables early identification and treatment to support mother and infant.
• B. A temporary mood change that resolves without treatment.
• C. Physical health issues only during pregnancy.
• D. Requires medication as standard for all new mothers.

Answer: (A)

Perinatal mental health refers to a mother’s emotional and psychological well-being during pregnancy and in the first year after birth. Screening is used to detect symptoms early, so that appropriate help—such as counseling, social support, or medical treatment—can be offered promptly. This early identification supports the mother’s well-being and also helps protect the baby’s development and the overall family functioning, since a mom who receives timely support is better able to bond with her infant and manage the stresses of new parenthood. The other ideas don’t fit as well: perinatal mental health concerns can extend beyond a temporary mood change, they involve mental health rather than only physical health, and treatment decisions are individualized rather than automatically requiring medication for every new mother.