Perinatal Health

Perinatal/Maternal Mental Health refers to the emotional and psychological well-being of mothers, fathers, and birthing individuals during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. Perinatal/Maternal mental health issues can affect an individuals ability to bond with and care for their child, which can have long-term consequences for the child's emotional and cognitive development.

Some common aspects of maternal mental health include:

  • Antenatal or Prenatal Depression and Anxiety: These are mood disorders that can affect pregnant individuals. Individuals may experience symptoms of depression and anxiety during pregnancy, and these conditions can persist into the postpartum period.

  • Postpartum Depression (PPD): PPD is a form of clinical depression that occurs after giving birth. It can include symptoms such as persistent sadness, feelings of worthlessness, changes in sleep and appetite, and difficulty bonding with the newborn.

  • Postpartum Anxiety: This involves excessive worry, restlessness, and heightened anxiety symptoms after childbirth. It can interfere with an individual’s daily functioning and ability to care for their child.

  • Postpartum Stress or Adjustment Disorder: Some individuals experience significant stress and difficulty adjusting to the demands of motherhood/parenthood, leading to emotional distress.

  • Postpartum Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): This involves intrusive and distressing thoughts and compulsive behaviors related to the baby's well-being.

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Some individuals may develop PTSD after experiencing a traumatic childbirth or complications during pregnancy.

  • Psychosis: Although rare, some individuals may experience postpartum psychosis, which is characterized by severe confusion, hallucinations, delusions, and risky behaviors. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.

Becoming a parent can be a major time of change and transition in an individuals life. Our team is trained in evidence-based practices to access and treat individuals going through these types of experiences. We take a non-judgmental and compassionate approach in our work with individuals, couples, and families. We value working as a team with other providers like medical doctors and psychiatrists to coordinate effective care and treatment plans for our clients.