Tulsa doctor outlines risks of untreated maternal mental health during pregnancy

Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week shines a spotlight on an often overlooked aspect of pregnancy: the emotional and psychological well-being of moms-to-be.

Dr. Daniel Bond, an OBGYN at Hillcrest Hospital in Claremore, spoke with News On 6’s Autumn Bracey about the mental health challenges many pregnant women face—and the serious consequences of ignoring them.

Here’s what you need to know.

Q: How common are mental health issues during pregnancy?

Dr. Bond says maternal mental health struggles are widespread but rarely talked about.

“I probably see it every day—literally I see antepartum depression or anxiety,” he said. He estimates between 60 and 80 percent of his patients experience some form of mental health issue while pregnant.

Q: Why is this issue important right now?

Untreated maternal mental health issues can have serious outcomes for both mother and baby, Dr. Bond warns. These issues can lead to high-risk pregnancies, affecting physical health as well as emotional well-being.

“Mental health as a whole is not really spoken a lot about,” Bond said. “A lot of women keep it behind closed doors.”

Q: What are the risks for moms and babies?

For babies, risks include low birth weight, early delivery, and increased chances of needing care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

For moms, there’s a higher risk of high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and even self-harm or suicidal thoughts.

“As far as the baby is concerned… low birth weight, which means increased risk of your baby going to the NICU, delivering early, preterm labor,” Dr. Bond said. “And then for mom… things like high blood pressure… can definitely increase your risk during pregnancy or make you a high-risk pregnancy.”

Q: What treatment options are available?

Dr. Bond recommends starting with cognitive behavioral therapy and support groups. Medication, he says, is typically a last resort if mental health challenges begin to directly impact the pregnancy.

Q: What role does community support play?

Factors like where a woman lives and her economic circumstances can make a big difference, Dr. Bond explained.

Programs such as Team Birth at Hillcrest aim to empower women by giving them more control over their pregnancy journey and connecting them with needed resources.

Q: What should expectant moms know?

Dr. Bond’s message is simple: You are not alone, and help is available. Addressing mental health early can protect both mom and baby and make for a healthier pregnancy experience.

Need help?

The Health Resources and Services Administration operates a free national maternal mental health hotline.

More information is available at HRSA's website.

See also: Exploring Mental Health Resources in Oklahoma: A Guide to Available Support

Social Media and Team Birth Empower Moms

Social media can be a powerful tool for connecting women with valuable mental health resources. Many online groups offer virtual or in-person sessions where moms can openly discuss their challenges, share experiences, and gain support from others facing similar struggles.

At Hillcrest Hospital, the Team Birth program helps expectant mothers become more actively involved in their care. The initiative empowers women to take control of their labor journey through a guided process that ensures their concerns and preferences are heard and respected.

The goal is to create a collaborative environment where moms feel confident, informed, and supported throughout childbirth.