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Maternal Mortality Tool Kit
What To Know
Maternal mortality is a critical global health issue, highlighting disparities in healthcare access and quality.
Reducing maternal mortality involves:
Welcome to our Maternal Mortality Toolkit, designed to provide comprehensive resources and information on preventing maternal deaths. Below, you will find a series of downloadable informational attachments covering key topics and strategies to improve maternal health outcomes.
The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline is free, confidential, and here to help, 24/7.
Call or text: 1-833-TLC-MAMA
Articles
Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMADs)
Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) encompass a range of emotional and mental health conditions that can affect women during pregnancy and after childbirth. These disorders include postpartum depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and, in severe cases, postpartum psychosis. PMADs can cause significant distress, impacting a mother's ability to function and bond with her baby. Symptoms may include persistent sadness, intense anxiety, irritability, changes in sleep or appetite, and intrusive thoughts. The exact causes of PMADs are not fully understood, but they are thought to result from a combination of hormonal changes, genetics, and environmental factors. It's essential for women experiencing these symptoms to seek help, as effective treatments are available to support recovery and promote well-being for both mother and child. See more informational resources about PMADs below:
Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)
Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) during pregnancy is a serious issue that can have severe consequences for both the mother and the unborn child. Pregnant women experiencing IPV may face physical injuries, psychological trauma, and heightened stress, which can lead to complications such as preterm labor, low birth weight, and miscarriage. The abuse can include physical violence, emotional manipulation, financial control, and isolation. Beyond the immediate physical risks, IPV can cause long-term psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The presence of IPV also complicates the healthcare and support women receive, as fear of the abuser or stigma may prevent them from seeking necessary medical care. It is crucial for healthcare providers and support networks to recognize and address IPV in pregnant women to ensure their safety and well-being. See more informational resources about IPV below:
Screening Tools
Screening tools are essential for physicians to identify Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) among pregnant and postpartum women. These tools, such as standardized questionnaires and interviews, help healthcare providers assess the mental and emotional well-being of their patients, ensuring early detection and intervention. For PMADs, screenings can identify symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders, allowing for timely treatment and support. In the context of IPV, screening tools can uncover signs of abuse, enabling healthcare professionals to offer resources and safety planning. The use of these screening tools is crucial in providing comprehensive care, promoting the health and safety of both the mother and her child. See below for PMAD & IPV screening tools:
Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders
Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)
Handling Positive Screens:
If a patient screens positive for EPDS (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale):
If a patient screens positive for HITS (Hurt, Insult, Threaten, Scream) indicating potential intimate partner violence (IPV):
Printable Resources