background Although anxiety disorders are more prevalent during the perinatal period, little attention has been given so far to the influence that pregnancy and the post-partum period can have on anxiety disorders.
aim To review the literature concerning the prevalence, presentation and treatment of anxiety disorders during pregnancy and the post-partum period and to identify the risk factors involved.
method We reviewed the literature in order to find articles concerning the influence of the post-partum period on various types of anxiety disorders.
results Having selected the most relevant articles, we discuss the findings in relation to specific types of anxiety disorder.
conclusion Women are more vulnerable to anxiety disorders during the perinatal period. Because anxiety disorders can have a significant impact on the mother and her foetus/infant it is important that anxiety disorders are identified and treated at the earliest opportunity.