Telepsychiatry in Obstetrics

Each year in the United States, approximately half a million reproductive-aged women are afflicted with major depression. Pregnant and postpartum women can be reluctant to openly disclose their suffering related to depression and other stigmatizing illnesses (eg, mood and anxiety disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, and substance use disorders) and subsequently remain symptomatic with no relief. Maternal mortality related to these conditions is significant, with maternal suicide and overdose-related death peaking between 7 and 12 months postpartum. Geographic challenges in accessing perinatal mental health experts can be overcome through the use of telepsychiatry services using a secure video platform (telemedicine).