Perinatal Mental Health

Starting a family can be one of the most wonderful life events, but it could also be one of the most difficult, due to the many changes, and uncertainties during this time.

Challenges during this time may include:

• Infertility
• Miscarriage and loss
• Perinatal Anxiety/ Depression
• Traumatic birth
• Baby blues
• Difficulty forming an attachment with baby
• Postpartum Mood/ Anxiety Disorders
• Older siblings adjusting to changes
• Changes in roles
• Marital and relationship changes
• Challenges with parenting
• Challenges with breastfeeding
• Challenges with returning to work
• Challenges with stay at home parenting
• Stress regarding childcare
• Unmet Expectations
• Trauma

What are Baby Blues ?

Baby Blues are not a disorder. Baby Blues Affect 60-80% of women universally. It is due to hormone fluctuations at the time of birth, and the lack of sleep. Last between 2 days to 2 weeks after birth. Peeks 3-5 days after delivery. If the symptoms last more than two weeks, THIS IS NOT THE BABY BLUES.

What is Perinatal Mood Anxiety Disorders? (PMAD)

• Perinatal- In pregnancy or the postpartum period.
• Mood- (Depression, Bi-polar, Psychosis)
• Anxiety- (Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
• Disorder- Gets in the way of daily functioning.
• Although the above mentioned disorders can affect us at any time, during the perinatal period there is an increased risk. PMADs does not discriminate, can impact anyone, money and social economic status are not protective factors. Affects 1 out of 5-7 women, and 1 out of 10 men.
• 1-2 in 1,000 postpartum women will develop Perinatal Psychosis.

Information obtained from training center PSI Postpartum Support international.

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