The anxiety disorders are conventionally subdivided into: generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder (PD), social phobia (social anxiety disorder (SAD)), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The current edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the (DSM)-IV-TR lists 12 anxiety disorders, with broadly similar categories listed in the International Classification of Impairments, Disabilities and Handicaps, 10th revision (ICD-10). Neurochemistry and brain imaging studies have influenced the development of theoretical models of GAD. Current neuroanatomical models of panic disorder draw on the understanding of the functional neuroanatomy of fear conditioning in animals. SAD is second only to specific phobia as the most common anxiety disorder in population-based community studies; onset is in the mid-teenage years and extends into the middle of the third decade. There are a wide range of medical conditions that can cause and perpetuate symptoms of anxiety.

This chapter outlines the ways of identifying women at risk and/or women who already show signs and symptoms of depression/anxiety associated with childbearing; and suggest treatment options and preventive measures. Depression during pregnancy is common, with reports suggesting that approximately 10-20" of pregnant women meet criteria for a major or minor depressive disorder. Postpartum psychosis may have any of the features of acute schizophreniform disorder, but most frequently resembles an episode of bipolar disorder, with an early manic phase and later depressive swing. Prevention is considered to be the first line of treatment for postpartum depression. A majority of women have significant psychological issues associated with their transition to motherhood. Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) has also shown promise in the treatment of depression, both during pregnancy and in the postnatal period. A number of studies have looked at hormonal treatment and prevention of perinatal psychiatric disorders.