Survey Finds Over Half of U.S. Mothers Face Mental Health Issues Around Pregnancy

WASHINGTON — More than half of U.S. women who gave birth in the past two decades experienced mental health challenges during pregnancy or in the year following childbirth, according to a Gallup-Pivotal Women’s Health Survey released from Washington, D.C. The findings, based on data collected from July 14 to July 22, 2026, show that 54% of surveyed mothers reported depression, anxiety, or another mental health issue related to their most recent pregnancy.

The research was conducted in partnership with Pivotal, an organization founded by Melinda French Gates. Among women aged 18 to 34, the reported rate of mental health challenges rose to 63%, compared to 51% for those aged 35 to 44 and 48% for those aged 45 to 54. Additionally, 24% of all respondents reported experiencing physical health symptoms beyond typical recovery in the 12 months following their most recent birth.

According to the survey, women seeking medical attention reported mixed experiences with healthcare providers. Among those who experienced physical health issues beyond normal recovery, 81% sought care. While 70% stated their providers proactively addressed their symptoms, 49% said they had to push to be taken seriously or to receive treatment. Another 37% reported that they were unable to get the care they felt they needed despite trying. In total, 28% viewed the care they received as very helpful, and 45% rated it as somewhat helpful.

The survey noted that health challenges during and after pregnancy had widespread effects on daily life and employment. Nearly two-thirds of respondents, or 62%, reported at least one negative consequence connected to their health. About 37% stated that health challenges made self-care more difficult, and 26% reported difficulties caring for their baby or family. In the workplace, 30% made changes or accommodations, 28% returned to work before feeling physically ready, 27% took more frequent or longer breaks, and 26% took extended leave or did not return to work.

Disparities were also observed based on household income levels. Among mothers in households earning under $50,000, 35% returned to work before feeling physically ready, compared to 19% of women in households earning $100,000 or more. Lower-income women were also twice as likely to reduce their working hours (30% versus 15%) and more than twice as likely to change jobs (30% versus 13%) following pregnancy-related health issues.

The findings are based on a survey of 1,088 U.S. women who have given birth in the past 20 years, conducted through the Gallup Panel.

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