Patterns of substance use during pregnancy are differentially associated with maternal mental health across the perinatal period

Background: Substance use during pregnancy can substantially increase risk for postpartum depression and anxiety symptoms, which can have lasting effects on family functioning and child development. However, substance use is often conceptualized as a binary exposure, limiting our understanding of whether specific patterns of use are associated with maternal mental health in the perinatal period. Here, we examined longitudinal patterns of prenatal alcohol use and smoking in relation to maternal depressive and anxiety symptoms across pregnancy and the first two years postpartum. Methods: We anal

This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement, treatment, or program — especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.