Assemblymember Brian Maienschein’s Bill To Provide Maternal Mental Health Screenings Signed by Governor​

SACRAMENTO – Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (San Diego) announced that his bill, AB 2193, to improve maternal mental health was signed by Governor Brown. The bill requires obstetric physicians and nurse practitioners to provide a mental health screening for expecting mothers during pregnancy visits and postpartum.

“Motherhood is an incredible transition for any woman” said Maienschein. “New moms experience emotional changes that deserve proper care and attention. My bill will help identify maternal mental health challenges and give women the opportunity to get treatment from a professional.”

One in five women experience depression or anxiety after having a baby. Screening for maternal mental health during regularly scheduled pregnancy visits can treat these symptoms, which has been shown to help the bonding process between new mothers and their babies.

Assemblymember Brian Maienschein represents the 77^th Assembly District, which includes which includes the communities of 4S Ranch, Carmel Mountain Ranch, Carmel Valley, Clairemont, Del Dios, Del Mar Heights, Fairbanks Ranch, Kearny Mesa, Mira Mesa, Poway, Rancho Bernardo, Rancho Penasquitos, Rancho Santa Fe, Sabre Springs, San Carlos, San Pasqual Valley, Scripps Ranch, Sorrento Valley, and Tierrasanta.