Objectives To synthesise evidence on the association between any diagnosed or self-reported mental health problems prior to pregnancy (pre-existing mental health problems) and birth outcomes including preterm birth (PTB), low birth weight (LBW), small for gestational age (SGA), neonatal unit (NNU) admission and mode of birth (instrumental birth, planned or unplanned caesarean section). Methods Systematic searches were conducted in MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase and PsycINFO in December 2024 for studies examining the association between any pre-existing mental health problems and PTB, LBW, SGA, NNU admission and mode of birth.
Only articles published in English were included with no restriction on year of publication. Two reviewers independently screened studies and extracted data.
Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and Joanna Briggs Institute checklists. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted to pool crude and adjusted ORs (aORs) and risk ratios (aRR) with 95% CIs.
ORs and RRs were analysed separately. Between-study heterogeneity was quantified using the I 2 statistic.
Results Of 15 467 records screened, 33 studies met the inclusion criteria.
BMJ Open published a clinical update in Research Highlights on 29 May 2026.
The item focuses on Birth outcomes for women with pre-existing mental health problems: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Review the original article for the full source wording and details.