Amidst National Pregnancy Week (3 – 7 Feb) the SA Society of Psychiatrists (SASOP) has urged healthcare providers and expectant mothers to treat mental health symptoms in pregnancy as urgent medical issues. According to the society between 16% and 50% of women in SA experience depression or anxiety during pregnancy. It adds that up to one in 10 may be at high risk of suicide.
SASOP’s core message is simple: Do not ignore symptoms and do not stop psychiatric medication without medical advice untreated illness can harm both mother and baby. It can also create long-term costs for families, employers, and the health system.
“Medication is not a failure. It can be one of the tools that helps a mother stay well and keep her baby safe.” - TimesLive (4 Feb 2026)