Pregnancy and the postpartum period are associated with heightened vulnerability to mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, psychosis, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In low- and middle-income settings like Nigeria, these conditions are often underdiagnosed and undertreated due to stigma, poor integration into maternal health services, and limited awareness.

This study aimed to assess the mental health status of pregnant and postpartum women attending antenatal and postnatal services in tertiary health institutions in Anambra State, Nigeria.

This study adopted a cross-sectional analytical design. A total of 310 pregnant and postpartum women attending antenatal and postnatal clinics were recruited from tertiary health institutions in Anambra State. Data were collected using self-report instruments and a structured “Assessment of Mental Health of Pregnant and Postpartum Women Questionnaire” developed by the researchers. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and independent t-test, with alpha set at 0.05.

The study found a high extent of depression (x̅ = 2.60), anxiety (x̅ = 3.16), psychotic symptoms (x̅ = 3.14), and post-traumatic stress disorder (x̅ = 3.15). There was a significant difference in the opinions of pregnant and postpartum women regarding the extent of anxiety disorder (p = 0.047). No significant differences were found for depression (p = 0.064), psychotic symptoms (p = 0.83), or post-traumatic stress disorder (p = 0.91).

Mental health disorders are prevalent among pregnant and postpartum women in tertiary health facilities in Anambra State, underscoring the need for routine psychological assessment as part of maternal care. Strengthening healthcare-provider capacity through targeted training in perinatal mental health, alongside integrating mental and physical health services, may improve early detection and management.