FOX4: Report Shows Mental Health-Related Issues Are Leading Cause of Death for New Mothers

A new collaborative study released by maternal mortality review committees in multiple US states found that four in five pregnancy-related deaths between 2017 and 2019 were preventable.

Twenty-three percent of pregnancy-related deaths during this time were caused by mental health conditions, such as suicide, as well as overdose and drug poisoning related to substance use disorder, the study suggests.

FOX4 talked to Dr. Sarah Pearl, OB-GYN at Saint Luke's East Hospital, about how the findings emphasize why it's so important for medical providers to take their time and invest in each patient. 


Watch more on the report below.

Related Content

Sep. 20, 2022

KSHB: Breastfeeding Support Groups Reopened After Pandemic
Saint Luke's is pleased that our in-person Breastfeeding Support Groups were been re-opened in the spring to new mothers with children under 3 months. But now, they have expanded access back to mothers and support people at any stage in their breastfeeding journey. 
Jun. 3, 2022

Health News You Can Use: Maternal Mental Health
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are among the most common complication during pregnancy or within the first year after delivery.
May. 31, 2022

FOX4: Maternal Mental Health Month: OB-GYN Encourages Mothers to Reach Out for Help
FOX4 talked to Dr. Sarah Pearl about when new and expecting mothers should reach out for help.