Perinatal depression: a neglected aspect of maternal health

Perinatal depression, among the most common morbidities of pregnancy and the postnatal period, is a major public health challenge. The US Food and Drug Administration's approval of zuranolone, the first oral drug indicated for the treatment of postpartum depression, on Aug 4, is a welcome development given that drug innovation in this area has been relatively static. However, cautious enthusiasm is warranted. Perinatal mental health is a drastically underappreciated determinant of maternal health, and medication is only one aspect to addressing perinatal depression.