Antenatal Anxiety and Depression: What 1 in 5 Expecting Mothers Experience and What to Do About It

Written by Jess Rosenberg, moode Founder | Last reviewed June 2026

Pregnancy comes with fluctuating progesterone and oestrogen, the physical demands of growing a baby, and for some, the additional toll of fertility treatment. Hormones have a significant impact on emotions, and most expecting mothers experience some range of feelings as a normal part of pregnancy.

But when those feelings begin affecting how you function day to day, it may be a sign of something more serious. Antenatal anxiety and depression affects one in five expecting mothers, according to Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA). Even more women experience a perinatal mental illness in the postpartum period than during pregnancy itself.

What is perinatal anxiety and depression?

Perinatal anxiety and depression refers to emotional experiences occurring during pregnancy (antenatal) and after birth (postnatal). Women experiencing this may feel overwhelmed by worry, fear, sadness or persistent low mood, in ways that significantly affect daily functioning, including the ability to care for themselves and their baby.

This is distinct from the normal emotional fluctuations of pregnancy. The defining feature is impact: when feelings of worry or sadness start interfering with sleep, appetite, relationships or basic daily tasks, that is the signal to seek support rather than wait it out.

What causes perinatal anxiety and depression?

The causes are complex and vary significantly from woman to woman. Contributing factors commonly include hormonal changes, chronic stress, relationship difficulties, financial pressure, and a personal or family history of mental health conditions. In some cases, what presents as antenatal depression may also be linked to what is sometimes called postpartum blues occurring earlier than expected, or symptoms carrying over from a previous pregnancy or loss.

How does IVF affect mental health?

The process of assisted reproduction is independently associated with increased anxiety, depression and stress, and can significantly affect self-esteem and confidence, according to the Centre for Perinatal Excellence (COPE). This is particularly relevant for women who experience a failed IVF cycle, where the emotional toll compounds with the physical and hormonal demands of treatment itself. Women undergoing fertility treatment should be aware that perinatal mental health support is available and relevant even before a confirmed pregnancy.

How is perinatal anxiety and depression treated?

Treating perinatal anxiety and depression matters for both the mother's wellbeing and her baby's health. Available approaches include:

Therapy, to identify and address the underlying causes of anxiety and depression and to build practical coping strategies for managing symptoms day to day.

Medication, where clinically appropriate, to help manage symptoms. Many medications are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and this is a conversation worth having directly and without shame with a GP, obstetrician or psychiatrist.

Lifestyle support, often used alongside medical treatment. Regular movement, a nourishing diet and adequate sleep can meaningfully support mood and reduce stress. Support from family and friends, peer support groups and counselling services also play a significant role in recovery.

When to seek help

If you are experiencing persistent low mood, overwhelming worry, or finding it difficult to function or connect with your pregnancy or baby, please reach out. You do not need a formal diagnosis to call for support.

If you are having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, or feel unsafe, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14, available 24 hours a day, or go to your nearest emergency department.

For perinatal-specific support in Australia, PANDA operates the National Perinatal Mental Health Helpline on 1300 726 306, Monday to Saturday. COPE provides evidence-based information and screening tools for expecting and new parents. The Royal Women's Hospital offers clinical perinatal mental health services for women in Victoria.

Supporting your wellbeing nutritionally

Nutrition does not replace clinical treatment for perinatal anxiety and depression, but it plays a genuine supporting role. B vitamins, magnesium and choline all support nervous system function and energy regulation during a period of significant hormonal change. Omega-3 fatty acids have evidence supporting mood regulation in the perinatal period.

The Prenatal by moode contains a full B complex, magnesium bisglycinate and 300mg of choline. It is Australian made and iron free. Always read the label and follow directions for use, and continue working with your healthcare provider on the clinical side of your care.

moode answers your questions about antenatal anxiety and depression

How is antenatal depression different from normal pregnancy hormones?

Normal hormonal fluctuation in pregnancy causes mood changes that come and go and do not significantly impair daily functioning. Antenatal depression involves persistent low mood, anxiety or hopelessness that interferes with sleep, eating, relationships or the ability to manage daily responsibilities, typically lasting more than two weeks.

Can antenatal depression affect my baby?

Untreated antenatal depression has been associated with risks including preterm birth and low birth weight, and can affect early bonding after birth. This is exactly why seeking treatment matters for both mother and baby, and why effective treatments exist and work.

Is it normal to feel anxious throughout pregnancy?

Some anxiety during pregnancy is common, particularly around the unknowns of birth, parenting and the changes ahead. The distinction lies in intensity and persistence. If anxious thoughts are constant, intrusive or preventing you from functioning, that is worth discussing with a healthcare provider or PANDA.

Will I need to stop my mental health medication during pregnancy?

Not necessarily. Many antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications are considered safe to continue during pregnancy and breastfeeding, with risk and benefit assessed individually by your psychiatrist or GP. Stopping medication abruptly without medical guidance can carry its own risks, so this decision should always be made with your healthcare provider.

Where can partners get support if they are worried about a pregnant partner?

PANDA's Helpline supports partners, family members and friends, not just the person experiencing symptoms directly. Partners are encouraged to call for guidance on how to support someone, and can also seek support for their own mental health, as partners can experience perinatal anxiety and depression too.