Postpartum Depression Education Act moves to governor's desk in major win for Black Maternal Health Caucus’ ‘Momnibus’ package
Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler October 10, 2024 | 2:53 PM
Harrisburg, October 10 — On Wednesday, the Pennsylvania legislature passed legislation (H.B.2127), which directs the PA Department of Health to create a public awareness campaign around perinatal and postpartum depression. The bill was introduced by state Reps. Elizabeth Fiedler, D-Phila., Gina Curry, D-Delaware, and Lisa Borowski, D-Delaware.
“As a mom of two, I know that even during the immense joy of bringing a baby into the world, mothers can struggle with postpartum depression,” Fiedler said. “New moms should not have to deal with the shame and isolation that often accompany this common, treatable heath condition. This new public awareness campaign is critical to increasing education, reducing stigma and saving lives.”
“This bill is not just a legislative measure; it is a critical lifeline for countless families, addressing the postpartum challenges of depression, psychosis, and other perinatal mental health issues head-on. It marks a crucial first step in providing the education and resources needed to ensure that birthing individuals understand they are not alone in their struggles,” Curry said.
Maternal mental health conditions are the leading cause of pregnancy-associated death in the commonwealth, according to the Pennsylvania Maternal Mortality Review Committee. Nearly 75% of mothers affected receive no treatment.
To improve maternal health outcomes, H.B. 2127 directs the Department of Health to centralize information on symptoms and treatment for PPD online and on fact sheets available in doctors’ offices, including an up-to-date list of organizations that provide counseling.
"I am thrilled to have worked with Representatives Fiedler and Curry to move this important legislation designed to support mothers and families. The health of the mother is directly tied to the wellbeing of the family. Postpartum depression can affect even the most seasoned mother. This important legislation will help identify issues and connect women and families to needed support,” Borowski said.
The bill was introduced in March as part of the PA Black Maternal Health Caucus “Momnibus” legislative package, which is designed to directly confront the staggering rate of Black maternal mortality in Pennsylvania.
Research shows that Black mothers are highly susceptible to depression and anxiety, due in part to economic disparities and racism. Combatting this trend means making sure Black parents have the opportunity to learn and receive the resources they need to take care of their mental health when they visit the doctor. House Bill 2127 is designed to increase awareness of all new mothers at the doctor’s office—regardless of race, ZIP code, or income.
Other bills in the Momnibus package propose expanding Medicaid coverage for doula services, requiring private insurance coverage of blood pressure cuffs for new parents, distributing “welcome baby kits” to new mothers, and more.
The bill has the support of maternal and reproductive health organizations, including March of Dimes, Maternity Care Coalition, the Pennsylvania Section of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the PA American College of Nurse-Midwives, Planned Parenthood Keystone, Pennsylvania Health Access Network, and more.
“For PA families, maternal mental health complications are a leading cause of maternal complications and death. What’s more alarming is individuals who experience racial or economic inequities are more likely to experience maternal mental health conditions, but less likely to get help,” said Melissa Patti, director of maternal and infant health for March of Dimes. “In Pennsylvania, March of Dimes is thrilled to celebrate the passage of H.B. 2127 and efforts to increase awareness and connection to resources on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.”
"The Pennsylvania Section of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists is proud to have worked on this very important piece of legislation. Perinatal and postpartum mood disorders, including postpartum depression, continue to pose a serious risk to pregnant and recently pregnant patients, and increasing everyone's awareness of this is important for improving the health of Pennsylvania families,” said Dr. Holly W. Cummings, chair of the Pennsylvania Section of ACOG.
“Maternal mental health care is paramount to a healthy family unit. As we look for solutions to the maternal health crisis in our country, repairing our current system where there is a lack of mental health screening and services is one critical step to turn the tides on these poor outcomes,” said Emily C. McGahey, clinical director and midwife with the Midwife Center, as well as the legislative chair for the Pennsylvania Association of Certified Nurse-Midwives.
The bill now advances to the governor’s desk to be signed into law.