A review of models, outcomes, and policy implications in the United States, targeted at Integrating mental health into maternal HIV care

Background: Depression and anxiety are mental health disorders that are prevalent in women with HIV, especially during pregnancy and after childbirth. Although it is clear that mental health and HIV outcomes have a bidirectional relationship, the concept of integrating mental health care with maternal HIV services is implemented consistently in the United States.
Objective: This review synthesizes current evidence on models, outcomes, and policy implications for integrating mental health services into maternal HIV care in the U.S., identifying key challenges and opportunities for strengthening service delivery and policy alignment.
Methods: A narrative synthesis approach was used to identify and analyze studies, program reports, and policy documents published. Searches in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, and CINAHL were conducted using keywords on HIV, maternal health, mental health integration, and the United States.
Results: The review identifies multiple integration models, ranging from co-located and collaborative care to community-based interventions, that demonstrate improved adherence, reduced depressive symptoms, and enhanced maternal-infant outcomes. However, persistent systemic barriers, such as fragmented funding, inadequate provider training, and policy misalignment, limit large-scale implementation.
Conclusions: Integrating mental health into maternal HIV care holds promise for improving both psychosocial and biomedical outcomes. The reform of policies and intersectoral cooperation are the keys to the expansion of evidence-based models, as well as the possibility of making the integration of healthcare systems equitable and sustainable.