A systematic review identifies key risk factors for antenatal anxiety and depression, highlighting the complex interplay of psychological, social, and biological factors. The review, which analyzed 97 studies published between 2003 and 2015, found that factors such as lack of social support, history of abuse or domestic violence, personal history of mental illness, unplanned pregnancy, adverse life events, and high perceived stress are strongly associated with antenatal depression and anxiety. Other risk factors include pregnancy complications, pregnancy loss, and personality traits such as negative cognitive styles. The review also notes that social support and a supportive partner are protective factors against these conditions. Socio-demographic factors like low educational achievement, unemployment, and belonging to a minority ethnic group were also linked to increased risk. Adverse life events and perceived stress significantly contribute to the onset of antenatal mental health issues, with social support playing a mediating role. Obstetric factors such as unplanned pregnancy, previous pregnancy complications, and history of miscarriage also increase the risk. The review emphasizes the importance of early identification and screening for women at risk, as antenatal mental health issues can have long-term effects on both mother and child. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive psychosocial assessments during pregnancy to identify at-risk women and implement preventive interventions.A systematic review identifies key risk factors for antenatal anxiety and depression, highlighting the complex interplay of psychological, social, and biological factors. The review, which analyzed 97 studies published between 2003 and 2015, found that factors such as lack of social support, history of abuse or domestic violence, personal history of mental illness, unplanned pregnancy, adverse life events, and high perceived stress are strongly associated with antenatal depression and anxiety. Other risk factors include pregnancy complications, pregnancy loss, and personality traits such as negative cognitive styles. The review also notes that social support and a supportive partner are protective factors against these conditions. Socio-demographic factors like low educational achievement, unemployment, and belonging to a minority ethnic group were also linked to increased risk. Adverse life events and perceived stress significantly contribute to the onset of antenatal mental health issues, with social support playing a mediating role. Obstetric factors such as unplanned pregnancy, previous pregnancy complications, and history of miscarriage also increase the risk. The review emphasizes the importance of early identification and screening for women at risk, as antenatal mental health issues can have long-term effects on both mother and child. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive psychosocial assessments during pregnancy to identify at-risk women and implement preventive interventions.