A group of doctors, care providers, and mothers came together at Pennsylvania Hospital this week to celebrate the enactment of the Postpartum Depression Education Act and advocate for further advancements in maternal health legislation.
The Postpartum Depression Education Act (Act 102 of 2024) directs the PA Department of Health to create a public awareness campaign around perinatal and postpartum depression. The department will also create a fact sheet on PPD symptoms and maintain a directory of counselors, ensuring resources are accessible.
The bill’s sponsors include Reps. Elizabeth Fiedler (D-Phila.), Gina Curry (D-Delaware), and Lisa Borowski (D-Delaware).
“Since working on the issue of postpartum depression, I’ve heard so many moms say they struggled to put a name on their feelings, leaving them isolated during hard times,” Fiedler said. “This law is designed to permeate the culture of silence around maternal mental health conditions, reduce stigma, and help support mothers.”
Maternal mental health conditions are the leading cause of pregnancy-associated death in Pennsylvania, according to the Pennsylvania Maternal Mortality Review Committee. Nearly 75% of mothers affected receive no treatment.
“Postpartum depression is a serious and often overlooked disorder, especially when undiagnosed,” said Curry, co-chair of the House Black Maternal Health Caucus. “This law is a vital step in supporting families by addressing perinatal mental health challenges and ensuring that mothers, particularly Black mothers, have access to the resources and education they need.”
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 also highly susceptible to depression and anxiety, due in part to economic disparities and racism.
“This legislation is a testament to what’s possible when we listen to mothers’ needs and work together to support their well-being,” said Jummy Kirby, a mother and owner of Relinquish and Transcend Counseling and Consulting. “It’s a moment to celebrate, but also a call to continue pushing for comprehensive maternal care.”
