09/03/2026
Zero. In all 50 states.
The United States currently has no specialized inpatient psychiatric Mother-Baby Units where a mother experiencing a severe perinatal mental health crisis can be hospitalized while keeping her baby with her.
Think about that.
When a mother is experiencing postpartum psychosis or another severe perinatal mental health condition, hospitalization may be necessary. But in the U.S., getting that level of psychiatric care can mean being separated from her baby during one of the most vulnerable moments of her life.
Other countries have shown that there is another way. Specialized Mother-Baby Units allow mothers to receive intensive psychiatric treatment while supporting the mother-infant relationship and addressing the unique needs of the postpartum period.
Why don't we have them here? And why aren't we talking about it?
Maternal mental health care cannot stop at awareness. We need the infrastructure to provide mothers with the specialized care they deserve.
💜 0 Mother-Baby Units. 50 states. We can—and must—do better.
If you or someone you know needs maternal mental health support, call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262). Free, confidential support is available 24/7.
