What is Perinatal Mental Health?
Perinatal Mental Health refers to the various mental health conditions that can occur during pregnancy and postpartum. It is important to seek care from clinicians who have been trained to address and treat these mental health conditions. Both of our clinicians are trained and skilled in reproductive mental health, including adoption-related concerns, infertility, and pregnancy loss.
Depression & Anxiety
Depression and anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum can occur in up to 1 in 5 women. Other mood changes, such as irritability, anger, rage, mood swings, and overwhelm, can also occur during this time. Postpartum OCD and Postpartum Bipolar Disorder are two significant mental health conditions that can appear in the postpartum period. It is important for pregnant and postpartum women to seek help if they are experiencing symptoms that worry them or if loved ones are concerned about their functioning.
Transitions & Adjustment
The transition to motherhood, a stage known as Matrescence, can be a major adjustment for many women. It is normal for new mothers to experience doubt, "What was I thinking??" and even regret, "I miss how things were before." These feelings are even more heightened in high-stress environments, such as during relationship issues, financial stress, or when a previous loss has occurred.
Pregnancy & Infant Loss
Loss through miscarriage, stillbirth, newborn death, Termination for Medical Reasons (TFMR), failed adoption, or failed IVF cycle are all examples of loss that can occur in the perinatal period. Responses to the loss vary and often affect functioning, mood, and relationships. It is important for parents to seek the help and support they need in processing the loss and moving forward in the grief process.
Infertility
Individuals and couples having to undergo expensive and invasive fertility treatments frequently experience symptoms of anxiety and depression throughout the process, which may extend into the perinatal and postpartum period.
Dads & Partners
Postpartum anxiety, depression, and struggles with the transition to becoming a parent can affect fathers and partners as well. Symptoms of this include anger, irritability, lack of interest, and increased substance use. Reach out for support-- you are important, too!
Birth Trauma
Any time a pregnancy, birth, or postpartum experience is interrupted by a traumatic event-- an extended hospitalization, emergent delivery, an NICU admission, excessive pain during labor, or a life-threatening event during delivery-- there is a risk of lasting and disturbing symptoms. Please reach out for help if you have experienced trauma in your pregnancy or delivery.