There are around 3.7 million births in the U.S. every year. Unfortunately, many women face mental health challenges in the weeks surrounding delivery, making emotional distress the number one cause of pregnancy-related deaths in the U.S.

It may be the case that many U.S. women have mental health challenges even before they become pregnant, or that there is a lack of planning or challenging family dynamics before pregnancy. But whatever the causes, it’s not a minor problem.

A recent review in JAMA Psychiatry evaluated 26 studies and concluded that pregnancy-related distress is fueling addiction and suicide among women, and accounting for 25% of maternal deaths.

Clearly, it’s important for healthcare providers — as well as family and friends — to look for distress, and for the government to offer effective programs to help women before, during, and after pregnancy.

About 13% of women have episodes of depression during the first three months after birth, but only around 12% of women are screened for postpartum depression.

What can you (or your loved one) do to help ease an emotionally challenging pregnancy and birth?

• Advocate for family planning and counseling, if needed, prior to pregnancy.

• Get regular prenatal checkups. Don't hesitate to tell your doctor about any distress you are feeling.

• If you experience postpartum depression, ask for help. (This is a physical problem, not some character flaw in you.)

• Take advantage of programs designed to support mothers, such as Mothers and Babies.