Depression during pregnancy can contribute to prematurity and low birth weight in infants. A new study reveals that, while two in 10 pregnant women are depressed, most of those women will not be treated.

Severe depression during pregnancy can interfere with a woman’s ability to eat properly, get enough rest, or receive pre-natal care - all of which can negatively impact the baby’s and the mother’s health.

Researchers at the University of Michigan Depression Center in Ann Arbor report some women do not seek treatment for depression because they believe the feelings are normal during pregnancy. Even the women who do seek treatment, report the researchers, are not getting the full psychological and medical intervention they need.

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