Perinatal Mental Health Defined
Perinatal is the period from the moment of conception through the first year after giving birth.
Mental health risks are considered during any stage within this period, including fluctuations in hormones in pregnancy, post-birth, onset of lactation, weaning, and re-emergence of menstruation, to name a few.
*Although there is risk for anyone to develop a mental health disorder at any point in their life, there is an increased risk during the perinatal period.
Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMADs)
Perinatal mental health disorders are referred to as Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs).
Perinatal (pregnancy or postpartum period)
Mood (depression, bi-polar, psychosis)
Anxiety (generalized anxiety disorder, panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder)
Disorders (get in the way of daily functioning)
*PMADs affect 1 in 7 women and 1 in 10 men. It’s important to note that these statistics may also be inaccurate as many individuals may feel hesitant to report, for fear of shame or criticism.
Development:
Some individuals may be at an increased risk for developing PMADs.
• Biology (i.e., heightened sensitivities to hormones)
• Psychosocial predispositions (i.e., genetics, low self-image, relationship patterns, history of childhood sexual abuse)
Considerations:
Many physical and emotional changes/adjustments will take place during the perinatal period, making it hard for individuals to know whether it’s “normal,” aka -baby blues.
The most viable way to distinguish what’s considered “normal” vs. problematic is whether it’s significantly impacting your ability to engage in regular daily functioning.
Signs:
• Are you experiencing debilitating depression that impacts your ability to get out of bed?
• Do you experience thoughts of hurting yourself or feel that everyone would be better off without you?
• Do you have intense fears of accidentally or intentionally hurting your baby?
• Do you avoid engaging in certain activities or going to certain places due to extreme worries?
• Are you having moments of rage without a clear or understandable trigger?
• Have friends, family, your OB-GYN / Midwife expressed concern?